Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead— and all the brothers and sisters with me, To the churches in Galatia: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Authority is granted to some and how it is granted is important. Some are granted authority to manage money or resources. Others have authority over cities or states. Still others have authority over households or workers. Leadership under God’s design accepts the authority granted to a person and leads out front and by example. We must lead in accordance with the Word of God.

We have seen leaders who lead only to fill their pockets or promote their own interests. The Bible describes these kinds of leaders all throughout the Old Testament. And they are judged by God for it.

We have also seen leaders who accomplish great things by the power of God’s Spirit. And they are rewarded for it.

As we start the book of Galatians, it is helpful to understand the context under which the book was written. Paul had shared the gospel and helped start this church. But after a while, some questioned his authority and leadership, and the foundation of his teaching.

As he starts this book he states his authority right up front: His authority comes directly from Jesus Christ as an Apostle of his. This granted authority has real power in the spiritual realms. Along with establishing his authority, Paul prays grace and peace over them in the name of their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He then points out the rescue mission he completed: “who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age.”

Sometimes we need to be reminded of the state we were in when we were rescued. We need to understand that the one who rescued us, loved us deeply. That he gave himself up for us. Why? Because understanding this ultimate sacrifice helps us to understand the lengths he will go to walk with us in the mountains and valleys of this life.

He is a Savior who knows our pain and struggles. He has borne our burdens, and he will do so every day in prayer, when we ask him to.

So when we think about our lives and our hardships, we must think about them in context of the life Jesus lived and the hardships he had faced. When we do that, we are able to understand that we can ask him for real help in our time of need and he delivers!

Lord, thank you for your Word which refocuses us on what really matters. You grant us authority to do your work and we are to be confident in it. And you also have rescued us from the pit of despair and stand ready to walk through life’s ups and downs with us too. Thank you for being a reliable and faithful companion who is strong in battle!