The apostle Paul was a unique individual. It is likely that no one else ever started out more determined to persecute and even kill Christians, then become a ruthlessly persecuted Christian convert himself, and ultimately suffer a martyr's death. A humble man of deep wisdom and insight, who would transcribe most of the New Testament, Paul spoke of himself as both; "The chief of sinners" (1 Tim 1:15) , and, "Less than the least of all the saints." (Eph. 3:8)

Born a Roman citizen and of Jewish descent, Paul was also a Pharisee who studied at the feet of 'the master', the respected Jewish teacher, Gamaliel. Without Paul's awareness, just as God does with each of us; He was preparing him for his purpose and destiny.

What was is that, in spite of his horrific past, and the relentless persecution he was now suffering, led Paul to say, "Things that were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ." (Phil 3:7-8 -- NKJV)

Can we venture to say that it was the persecution itself? Could it be that persecution is a wild stallion of untamed power, which, if saddled and harnessed with the power of perseverance, and ridden with the fury of a never-give-up God given vision burning within us, will take us places we'd never be able to go without it? After all, isn't it the enraged fire escaping the jet engine that thrusts the aircraft forward and upward to soar the heavens and move its travelers to their destination?

While all this may be true, Paul's dynamic purpose was the real key without which there would have been relatively little persecution. Paul's encounter with Jesus Christ on the Damascus road and the vision imparted to him there was indelibly infused into his spirit. While some traveling with him, "Saw the light, but did not hear the voice" (Acts 22:9) , and others, "Heard the voice, but seen no one" (Acts 9:7) , Paul had experienced both, "The God of our fathers has chosen you that you should - be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard" (Acts 22:14- 15) .

Paul therefore had no doubt regarding his 'purpose' and was determined to fulfill that purpose, choosing to faithfully follow no matter the severity of scorn, opposition, or afflictions, and so must we. Just as God revealed to Paul his unique purpose, He likewise has a unique purpose that He desires to reveal to each one of us. While our encounter with Him will likely not be nearly as dramatic, it will most certainly be just as unique and purposeful. And whether we're purposed to be the 'big hand on the face of clock' or 'the tiniest wheel hidden inside its mechanism", it makes no difference. Each part is vitally needed to make the clock function properly. And to fulfill our particular God given purpose, we must emulate Paul's unwavering perseverance and faithfulness as well.

But remember, when you report for duty, persecution will inevitably be there as well. When that happens, be strong and of good courage; take hold of the power of perseverance, saddle up, and ride the spirited winds of the heavens, over and above the enemy's obstacles, and press on to win the prize ahead -- the fulfillment of your purposed destiny for 2008. Luke 1:37

"Moses my servant is dead (the past is gone). Now then - get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give (you)." (Josh 1: 2)

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