Have you ever known someone who has done a lot for the Lord? I have several people in my life who have a large influence when it comes to making a difference for the Lord. These kind of people deserve honor, and should be learned from and worked with, yet they are still people. Yesterday we saw some great leadership skills exemplified by Paul. Today this example continues.

Paul recognized those who were influential without holding them in too high regard…

But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man’s person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me: (7) But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; (v.6-7)

…because he recognized it was the grace of God that allowed them all to accomplish any gospel ministry.

(8) (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) (9) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. (10) Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do. (v.8-10)

So, some points of application for us:

• Sometimes a desire to hold others in too high regard comes from a desire to be held in high regard by others.
• A cure for this is understanding who we are and who God is when it comes to ministry. Every person is given talents, spiritual gifts, and particular ministry that is specific to them. Any true success that anyone has in life is the gracious gift of God.

Any opportunity to do ministry, and any success that comes in ministry is a gracious gift of God.