March 24, 2013 (Joshua 18-20; 1 Corinthians 9)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.” 1 Corinthians 9:25 NLT
Observation: Paul did not preach the gospel for filthy lucre’s sake, he preached because God compelled him to do so. He was well pleased to have preached without charging an earthly price. He understood that he had a right to payment, but made the honorable choice to deny his rights. Paul understood his payment as the opportunity God had given him to preach. This choice took an enormous amount of self-discipline. Like an athlete training for a big event, Paul disciplined himself to win the ultimate eternal prize. Paul’s actions prove once again that the gift of God comes with a measure of responsibility and we should be careful not to take the opportunities God has given us for granted.
Application: What ever happened to the need for self-discipline? Now day’s people are all about “self-help”, but deny any responsibility for self-discipline. This is true in the church as well. Many have used the giftedness that God gave them to win a healthy earthly prize. Unbelievable amounts of money are being accepted by those that claim to be God’s servants. Not only do they accept it, they boast of how they deserve it! I wonder how many “big time” preachers would be left around if the paycheck stopped today. I wonder how many would be willing to preach for the pay Paul received. Pondering these questions makes me wonder how many are truly seeking to win an eternal prize.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for all the blessings You give. Thank You for Your grace that is sufficient for me. Thank You for the privilege of preaching Your gospel without charge. Help me to remember the example Paul left and continue that honorable legacy. Teach me to discipline myself and train my heart to seek an eternal prize. Fix my eyes upon You and keep me from turning to the left or right. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me everyday, in Jesus name, Amen!