The Apostle Paul’s words in Galatians 1:11-12 are a profound reminder that the gospel is not a product of human ingenuity or effort. It is divine in origin, revealed by Jesus Christ Himself. Paul’s testimony is striking—he did not learn the gospel from other apostles or religious leaders, nor did he craft it from his own understanding. Instead, he received it directly from God through revelation.
Galatians 1:11-12 King James Version
11 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.
12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
This truth sets Christianity apart. Unlike philosophies or ideologies that evolve through human reasoning, the gospel stands as a timeless and unchanging declaration of God’s grace. It is a message of hope and salvation that transcends culture, time, and human limitations. For believers today, this assurance can anchor our faith amidst the shifting tides of worldly opinions and challenges.
Paul’s Transformation: A Testament to Grace
Paul’s life before encountering Christ was marked by zeal for the law and persecution of Christians. He was a man driven by legalism and self-righteousness, yet God chose him—not because of his qualifications but because of His grace. This divine intervention on the road to Damascus (Acts 9) not only transformed Paul’s life but also gave him an unshakable conviction about the gospel’s divine origin.
Paul’s story reminds us that God often chooses the least likely candidates to fulfil His purposes. It is not our past mistakes or inadequacies that define us but God’s ability to redeem and use us for His glory. Just as Paul was kept by God’s grace and called to share the gospel with the Gentiles, we too are kept by Him—secure in His love and empowered for His purposes.
Kept by Him in Every Season
To be “kept by Him” means to be held securely in God’s hands regardless of life’s circumstances. It is a promise of divine care and guidance that extends into every area of our lives:
- In our struggles: When life feels overwhelming, we can rest in the assurance that God’s strength sustains us. He promises never to leave or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6).
- In our calling: Like Paul, each of us has been called for a unique purpose in God’s kingdom. Trust that He will equip you for every good work He has prepared for you (Ephesians 2:10).
- In our failures: Even when we fall short, God’s grace covers us. He does not abandon us but lovingly restores us and leads us forward (Psalm 37:23-24).
The Power of Divine Revelation
Paul’s insistence that his gospel came directly from Jesus Christ underscores an important truth: faith is not about intellectual assent or human tradition but about encountering God personally. Just as Paul experienced a revelation of Christ, we too are invited into a relationship with Him through the Holy Spirit.
This personal connection with God transforms our understanding of who He is and who we are in Him. It moves faith from being a set of rules to follow into a vibrant relationship marked by love, trust, and obedience.
Living as Testimonies of His Grace
As believers, our lives become living testimonies of God’s grace when we allow Him to work in and through us. Just as Paul’s transformation served as evidence of the gospel’s power, our stories can inspire others to see God’s faithfulness.
Take time today to reflect on how God has kept you—through trials, doubts, and victories. Share your testimony with someone who needs encouragement. Remember that your story, like Paul’s, is a testament to the power of the gospel.
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for keeping me close to You through Your grace and love. Help me trust in Your care when I feel weak or uncertain. Reveal more of Yourself to me each day so I may walk in Your truth and share Your gospel with others. Thank You for holding me securely in Your hands.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection Questions
- How does knowing that the gospel is divinely revealed strengthen your faith?
- In what areas of your life do you need to trust God more fully to “keep” you?
- How can you share your testimony to encourage someone else this week?
Read More About This Devotional
Words of Wisdom: Safe in His Arms: The Power of Divine Protection
Quote of the Day: “Your Life is Hidden in Christ”
Final Encouragement
Paul’s words remind us that we are held by hands far stronger than our own—hands that formed the universe yet tenderly guide our steps each day. Rest in this truth today: you are kept by Him. Let this assurance inspire you to walk boldly in faith and share His love with those around you.
Scripture Reading for the Day
Song of Solomon 4 King James Version
1Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair; thou hast doves’ eyes within thy locks: thy hair is as a flock of goats, that appear from mount Gilead.
2 Thy teeth are like a flock of sheep that are even shorn, which came up from the washing; whereof every one bear twins, and none is barren among them.
3 Thy lips are like a thread of scarlet, and thy speech is comely: thy temples are like a piece of a pomegranate within thy locks.
4 Thy neck is like the tower of David builded for an armoury, whereon there hang a thousand bucklers, all shields of mighty men.
5 Thy two breasts are like two young roes that are twins, which feed among the lilies.
6 Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense.
7 Thou art all fair, my love; there is no spot in thee.
8 Come with me from Lebanon, my spouse, with me from Lebanon: look from the top of Amana, from the top of Shenir and Hermon, from the lions’ dens, from the mountains of the leopards.
9 Thou hast ravished my heart, my sister, my spouse; thou hast ravished my heart with one of thine eyes, with one chain of thy neck.
10 How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! how much better is thy love than wine! and the smell of thine ointments than all spices!
11 Thy lips, O my spouse, drop as the honeycomb: honey and milk are under thy tongue; and the smell of thy garments is like the smell of Lebanon.
12 A garden inclosed is my sister, my spouse; a spring shut up, a fountain sealed.
13 Thy plants are an orchard of pomegranates, with pleasant fruits; camphire, with spikenard,
14 Spikenard and saffron; calamus and cinnamon, with all trees of frankincense; myrrh and aloes, with all the chief spices:
15 A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon.
16 Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my garden, that the spices thereof may flow out. Let my beloved come into his garden, and eat his pleasant fruits.
