March 24, 2020: SOAP #3764:  Joshua 18-20; 1Corinthians 9

Scripture:  1Corinthians (NIV) 9:16 Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!
17 If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me.
18 What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights in preaching it.

Observation:  Everyone has been in a place where they were expected, required, directed to do something they would rather not do.  (This is not about something sinful or unlawful.)  It may be as simple as driving the speed limit or coming to a complete stop at a stop sign.  It may be something expected by family members.  It may be something that God has given us to do.

Application:   Paul gives me two choices in the matters about which I do not have a choice.  The choice is not “do it” or “don’t do it;” the choice is in my attitude.  I can do it because I am compelled, or I can do it voluntarily.

When I serve because I am required, my focus is on getting it over.  I may unknowingly communicate several messages: that the people I am serving are not deserving of my time or that I am just wasting my time.

When I serve voluntarily, my focus is on the assignment and those I am serving.  I communicate that they are worthy of my service.  I communicate that they are not a waste of my time; they are my reward.  I find my joy in doing a good job serving others.

Prayer:  Holy Spirit, now about the matter of which you are speaking to me.  Continue to remind me of Whom I am really serving. May your “Well done” be my greatest reward.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!