God Calls Us Strong in the Grace that is in Jesus Christ part 4

Concept: The hard working farmer who labors according the rules of farming must be the first to enjoy the harvest.

2 Tim 2:1-7 You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. 3 Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. 5 Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules. 6 The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops. 7 Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. NASU

Although this section applies to the farmer who is rewarded for his labors when he works according to the rules of agriculture Paul is also applying it to Timothy in his labors for God as a pastor.

It is true that those who invest their life in the labors of the Gospel should be rewarded and cared for by those who receive from them; this however is only a part of the truth here.

Every believer is working in God’s harvest fields as well as working at their job. If we are diligent in our labors for God we will be rewarded accordingly. Many today say that the work of the ministry of kingdom is only for those who receive their pay check in full time ministry; this however goes contrary to the New Testament teachings about the role of every believer to be an Active member of the Body of Christ, Living Stones, Salt, Light and Good News.

Today we need to check in with God and examine ourselves to see if we are working hard in our labor for God’s harvest or if we have excused ourselves and are letting ‘everyone do it.’

While thinking on this we need to determine what we might be doing that advances God’s kingdom. Not everyone has the same gifting. Some are evangelist, some are givers, and some are encouragers or teachers or givers of mercy. Whatever you can do it with all your might for the Lord!