Feb 23

“…that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me…” Philemon 1:13

As he sends him back to Philemon, Paul gives reference of the servant Onesimus, in such a positive light, that he compares the services he is rendering to Paul while in prison, equal to and as valuable as those that Philemon himself would have offered, had he been with Paul. There is an affinity which grows among fellow ministers. This is the result of the calling that is placed on their lives by the Lord. It is a precious fellowship, one that goes beyond mere organizational ties, or academic connections. It is borne of the like precious faith which joins and makes a common bond and purpose, for those who are part of it. It is a spiritual fellowship; a companionship and friendship ordained by God’s Spirit and supported by His Word. The called ones, who are privileged to experience such excellence of ministry, benefit not only from the gift of God to minister to others, but the blessing of receiving the ministry of others. In difficult times, times of trials and afflictions, when few understand the heart and burden of the minister, God sends one who is called, to help carry the load, encourage the heart and remind the wearied servant to remain yet faithful. Paul was in bonds not for some misconduct or crime, but for being a preacher of the gospel of Christ. He might have been limited in his space and movements, but was not impoverished in the faith and in his zeal for the Lord. Onesimus proved profitable, as he willingly helped to support the weight of Paul’s cross! Helping him to carry the burden of his prison bonds and ministering to his needs, as Paul in turn, concentrated all he had left to minister the word of God to others! Might we pray that God may supply us with more ‘Pauls’ to see the gospel go forth and God’s kingdom spread, but that he may also provide more precious workers, like useful Onesimus, to minister to the needs of the ministers, faithfully and without complaint. This is what true service and ministry to God, is really all about, each doing what God has called us to do, lovingly, humbly, patiently and joyfully, as unto the Lord!

http://www.pentecostalfamilychurch.com.au/devotion

Feb 21

“A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame…” Proverbs 17:2

The wise and the fool are often contrasted in the book of Proverbs. In the normal course of human government, a master’s son would naturally have rule over a servant. Wisdom however, can make a huge difference to the status, position and responsibility of any individual. In the presence of titled foolishness, servant wisdom may well be preferred and given place. In our verse, it may be because the son’s father recognises the son’s looseness and foolishness that he places him under the authority of the wise servant in question; or perhaps simply through sagacity and diligent application, the servant progressively wins the favour and authority of the father over his foolish son. Either way we learn by comparison, the powerful value of wisdom, its application and benefit in every area and dealing of life, versus the poverty and shame which foolishness and irresponsibility, inevitably will bring. God is intent in teaching His people to be wise people with a godly, heavenly, kind of wisdom. This is not an astuteness to be used against others, for personal glorification or gain, but rather an endowment, by which to glorify God and be of service to our fellow-man. God blesses those who navigate the seas of life, steering with the helm of godly discernment, and powered by the sails of obedience, filled with the winds of divine principles! It matters not what our initial status in life may be, if we prove ourselves wise and faithful, God has greater plans and purposes ahead for us! Yahwah is no respecter of persons! His blessings and opportunities for life, His endowments - both present and eternal, are open and available to all, without reference to family heritage, entitlement or position. Indeed we are all servants of the Almighty God, and as such none above another. The difference in the position He grants us then, may well come down, to just how much in love and regard for God, we each individually submit to His ways, learn His wisdom, and become profitable servants for His Majesty’s glory!

http://www.pentecostalfamilychurch.com.au/devotion