Daily Devotions and Bible Readings
1 Corinthians 11–What you Need to Know and Do
The concepts presented in the last verses of chapter 11 further magnify the overarching theme we have considered this week. That is, we are to be sensitive to others and their needs when considering how we live.
A few weeks ago, we showed a video in the morning service from the organization called World Vision. This video outlined the work of this organization to provide basic need for children in corners of our world where they experience very substandard living conditions. We were challenged to sponsor a child by making a monthly donation. This concept should cause us to examine our financial practices. We are asked to give at every turn. We believe, practice, and teach 10% of our income should be given to the local church. We believe, practice and teach giving above the tithe to mission work around the world. We believe, practice and teach giving above the tithe to special projects in the local congregation like the building fund. Have we turned Christianity into an expensive endeavor? Actually, Jesus said it would cost us all to follow Him. Most of us know what we define as poverty in America is actually great wealth in other cultures.
The Bible points out the hypocrisy of Christians living in comfort and luxury while others in the world are suffering because of what they do not have in terms of a basic standard of living. He actually says we despise the church of God when we do such things. In actuality, we destroy our witness and forfeit the privilege of taking the good news to the world.
It is time for a little self inspection. As you develop your family budget and plan your purchases, would you consider the way in which you give to others? How we approach these subjects is a major indicator of how serious we are about surrender to the God who created us who is also the one who sustains our physical lives.
Prayer Challenge:
Pray for God to reveal to you either a challenge to give or confirmation of the ways in which you currently give. Pray for the work of Southern Baptist in hunger relief around the world and please remember to pray for our missionaries.
Ministry Challenge:
Call someone who has been absent from your Life Group meetings for a while and invite them to attend this week.
Mission Challenge:
Today is prayer walk Friday. As you approach your place of employment today, be sure to pray for the salvation and spiritual awakening of the employees where you work.
Reflection
What did God say to me from this Scripture reading, devotional, and or prayer time?
What did I say to God?
