The Daily Fountain Daily Devotional of the Church Of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) 16 November 2019 – Labour For Godly Reward
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TOPIC: Labour For Godly Reward
READ: 1 Timothy 5:17-25 (NKJV)
17 Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.
18 For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer is worthy of his wages.”
19 Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses.
20 Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear.
21 I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing with partiality.
22 Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; keep yourself pure.
23 No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.
24 Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later.
25 Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.
THE MESSAGE:
By his ministerial experience, Apostle Paul could advise one of his sons in the Lord, Timothy, who at that time, was a Bishop of Ephesus. His major advice to him was to reward whoever performs his duties well. Verses 17 and 18 reveal necessities for reward, and why this was necessary: Never tie up the mouth of an ox when it is treading out the grain let him eat as he goes along (verse 18, Living Bible). especially those who labour faithfully in preaching and teaching (verse 17- Amplified).
Brethren, in discharging our duties, diligence and faithfulness have no alternatives. Do not seek reward garbed with deceit, evil-speaking of others, fraud, eye-service etc. 1 Corinthians 4:2 says, “Moreover, it is required in stewards that one be found faithful”. Today, people of dubious character are being rewarded while the good works of some go unnoticed. They may seem unnoticed to you but God takes record of all that we do and how we go about them. “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labour of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister” (Hebrew 6:10). Beloved, how faithful and diligent are you in your place of work? Does your work match up with the payment you get? How justifiable is your reward or promotion? If it is not, repent. Are you trying hard in your capacity and yet no reward or promotion? Relax! Our God is a Rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrew 11:6). He rewards faithfulness.
PRAYER: Father, help me to faithfully discharge my duties to You and humanity.
