Devotion for Friday, November 12, 2021

“For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either” (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

Here is a principle for our time.  This is not speaking to those who are unable, but to those who are.  There are many who are lazy and are willing to let others take their portion of the work.  It ought not be this way amongst those who follow Christ.  Each should do their part.  It is not cruel to not give to the one who is belligerent.  If you are going to partake, you should do your part.

Lord, this is one of those things that is hidden amidst the wickedness of our age.  In the name of compassion, we give away the house.  Teach me, O Lord, that only in You can we find goodness and mercy.  Only in You can we find temperance and hope.  Lead me Lord in the way of living this life that You have given me so that I may do the work You give me to do while it is day.

Lord Jesus, You came and served and did not ask to be served.  Now that You have served us, You ask us to serve others in Your name.  Teach me how to give to others so that when I partake of what You have done for us, it may be sweet.  Lord, You have created balance in the universe and no one is exempt from living in that balance.  Lead me, Lord, to live a life of common sense and balance.

Lord Jesus, You have done what we could not do for ourselves.  You have not asked us to treat You as the king You are, but to serve the least of these as if we were serving You.  Lead me in this way so that I may know the truth that only when I do what You ask do I receive the heavenly food that You give.  Help me to model this in my daily life and to live consistently in You.  Amen.