As Christians we have rights. The thing is that those rights are not of this world. We are to obey Christ and surrender ourselves to him and his work; our reward is yet to come.
Although our reward comes later, we should still be compensated for the work we do, but our compensation is different than what we might think. In the world compensation is thought of as monetary wealth and prosperity, but with God, compensation is sustenance and the fulfillment of needs.
“13Do you not know that those who are employed in the temple service get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the alter share in the sacrificial offerings? 14In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.” – 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 (ESV)
As I read this passage, I am reminded that our needs are met by God as we continue to do his work. We are to expect no more than having our needs met. “Should get their living by the gospel” are the words of Paul and that living is just that; food, water, shelter, and fellowship are all the things that God provides.
I think that we too often think that making a living is making it big in the world. Shouldn’t we be thinking of living as just that, living? Not, “living large” in worldly terms, but living large of the grace of God.
We are in the position of living for Jesus as opposed to living for ourselves and that will require surrender and endurance.
“11If we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you? 12I others share this rightful claim on you, do not we even more? Nevertheless, we have not mad use of this right, but we endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 9:11-12 (ESV)
Our comfort and wealth are not important and can/will get in the way of our spiritual growth and wealth. We are called to surrender and endure, and when we do, our needs will be met.
Where is your focus daily as you walk, on the wealth of things, or in getting “a living” as Paul describes? What areas are you working on your spiritual growth and wealth? Are you surrendering to God and enduring for heavenly gain?
Trevor's Thoughts 