Sept. 26 Devotion: An Open Door

An Open Door

1 Corinthians 16:9

For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.

This verse encapsulates the tension between opportunity and opposition, a recurring theme in Paul’s ministry. Penned during his third missionary journey, likely from Ephesus, Paul reflects on the opportunities and challenges of spreading the Gospel.

The “great door and effectual” symbolizes a God-given opportunity for impactful ministry. In Ephesus, Paul found fertile ground for preaching, with many receptive to the message of Christ. The term “effectual” suggests that this door was not just open but divinely empowered, leading to fruitful outcomes like the establishment of churches.

Yet, the phrase “and there are many adversaries” acknowledges the inevitable opposition. In Ephesus, Paul faced hostility from Jewish leaders, idol-worshipping craftsmen, and cultural resistance to the Gospel’s transformative message. These adversaries, both spiritual and human, underscore the cost of pursuing God’s call. Paul’s resolve to stay despite opposition reflects his trust in God’s sovereignty and timing.

This verse shows how while God opens doors for service, opposition is part of the journey. Like Paul, we as Christians are called to discern opportunities, stand firm against challenges, and trust God’s power to work through adversity, knowing that open doors often come with obstacles but lead to eternal impact. Are we willing to make those stands or do we give in to the adversaries too quickly? There are many things going on in society and even in our own communities that have people searching for answers as well as being more open to the truth. Are we using that opened door to share the Gospel or do we allow a “not interested “ from a few discourage us from trying anymore.

We have a great door that the Lord has opened, let’s use it the way the Lord would have us use it.

God bless,

Bro. Josh Richardson