Brothers, We Are Not Entitled

Ephesians 3:8-13    
8 To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ; 10 to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, 11 according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him. 13 Therefore I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

Paul did not think himself as special or deserving, but as a sinner given grace, called out to call others to Christ through the gospel’s words of life.  He wanted others to see these great eternal riches and participate in God’s mystery of Christ’s working from the beginning of time and creation (and before).  God planned these things to show His wisdom in this grace in the time He designated, that we who He chose and called out might call out as a witness in heaven and to those on earth.  His purpose of our salvation in Christ gives us the right to stand before Him eternally based on Christ’s righteousness alone by God’s plan and choosing, so we can come to Him without holding back, confidently coming by the faith given and promises made to us.  This is why we don’t grow weary or want to give up in troubles or even facing death - because God is glorified.