Monday May 4, “Walking In Wisdom”
In the days of Paul, the Jewish believers in Jerusalem were hurting. Not only did a famine sweep the land, members of the church were disowned by their families, and taxes were levied against them by both Rome and the Jewish leaders. When the churches at Macedonia heard of their plight, even though they themselves were in deep poverty, they pleaded with Paul to let them help their brothers and sisters in Christ. And so they gave, “according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave of their own accord, begging us with much urging for the favor of participation in the support of the saints, and this, not as we had expected, but they first gave themselves to the Lord and to us by the will of God.” (vs. 3-5)
Not wanting to be left out of the great joy found in the privilege of supporting fellow Christians, even though the Macedonia churches had little, they gave eagerly, generously, and without having to be asked. From hearts filled with love for Jesus, and thankfulness for His saving grace, they were honored to show that same love and grace to others. And Paul calls us to do the same. “Just as you abound in everything.....see that you abound in this gracious work also.” (vs. 7) Love isn’t only something we feel, love is also something we do. It isn’t enough just to have a desire to help others. Out of the abundant grace given to us through Jesus, we need to put that love into action, not only glorifying Him, but as proof of “the sincerity of your love” for the Lord. (vs. 8)
There is no greater example of love in action than our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. For, “though He was rich, yet for your sake, He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.” (vs. 9) Jesus has everything. He sits at the right hand of the Father, surrounded forever by the glory of God. As Ruler and Creator of all things, He has multitudes worshiping Him and singing His praises. Yet willingly, out of His great love for us, He left behind the treasures, power, and majesty of heaven. “The Lord Jesus left the magnificence and splendor of His kingdom in heaven where He is abounding in every way. He chose the limitation, suffering, and lowliness of a human body so He could personally demonstrate His great love to us.”....Dr. Charles Stanley.
Because of His sacrifice on the Cross, because He gave all He had, because He gave His life to save ours, we as Christians are now heirs to the riches of Jesus’ great kingdom. And one day very soon our Savior will return to take us to that kingdom where we will dwell and reign with Him forever! So especially now when the whole world is hurting, give God your first and your best by putting your love in action!
