“If we sowed spiritual things in you, is it too much if we reap material things from you? If others share the right over you, do we not more? Nevertheless, we did not use this right, but we endure all things so that we will cause no hindrance to the gospel of Christ” (1 Corinthians 9:11-12).
Where is the value in what you receive? Is it just in the material things of this world? Is it not more so in the greater portion of the eternal life given by grace? What value can you place on all that has been given you? Is the one who gives you the good news of any less value that your investment advisor who grows your portfolio? Why do you value the temporal and think nothing of the eternal?
Lord, help me to learn heavenly priorities. Not out of guilt, but out of a true sense of value for these things. Guide me, O Lord, in the way of truth that I would neither cling to what is material, nor become like one in a fantasy about heavenly things. Keep me grounded and in the truth. Let me not hinder the Gospel, but instead embrace it with the whole of my being. Guide me in Your truth.
Lord Jesus, there are many things You have taught us that we may have balance in life. Lead me, O Lord, in the way of truth that I may become one who is balanced in all things. Guide me to see that in You alone is all hope and that what You give is of more value than the greatest thing of value I can think of. Help me understand what it means to seek the pearl of great price and to not cast it before swine’s feet. Amen
