I Feed My Horse and You Feed Me1 Corinthians 9:10-12a
If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you? If others have this right of support from you, shouldn't we have it all the more?
Thoughts for Today:I once heard the story of a preacher who lived around the turn of the century. The preacher was rather thin by most people's standards, yet the horse he drove around town was fine-looking in every way. One day, one of the church deacons asked of him, "Preacher, how is it your horse looks well-fed, but you are so skinny?" The preacher answered, "Simple. I feed my horse and you feed me."
I think this illustration sums up the point Paul has been making throughout this entire section: We have a clear responsibility to financially support those who serve us in ministry. And when we don't we only embarrass ourselves.
In Luke 10:7a, Jesus gave instructions to the seventy-two messengers He sent ahead of Him: "Stay there, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages." Once again the Lord makes His will clear: Every worker, including those in all types of ministry, deserves their wages.
Questions to Ponder:Have you been an encouragement to those who serve in ministry? It is important to note that not all needs are based in finances. Have you expressed your appreciation of the work your pastor has been doing? In what specific areas have you been blessed? The children's program, women's or men's functions, small group Bible studies, or even a recent sermon? A great portion of a Pastor's job satisfaction comes from the spiritual growth of their flock. Will you share how you have been blessed by their efforts?
If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you? If others have this right of support from you, shouldn't we have it all the more?
Thoughts for Today:I once heard the story of a preacher who lived around the turn of the century. The preacher was rather thin by most people's standards, yet the horse he drove around town was fine-looking in every way. One day, one of the church deacons asked of him, "Preacher, how is it your horse looks well-fed, but you are so skinny?" The preacher answered, "Simple. I feed my horse and you feed me."
I think this illustration sums up the point Paul has been making throughout this entire section: We have a clear responsibility to financially support those who serve us in ministry. And when we don't we only embarrass ourselves.
In Luke 10:7a, Jesus gave instructions to the seventy-two messengers He sent ahead of Him: "Stay there, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages." Once again the Lord makes His will clear: Every worker, including those in all types of ministry, deserves their wages.
Questions to Ponder:Have you been an encouragement to those who serve in ministry? It is important to note that not all needs are based in finances. Have you expressed your appreciation of the work your pastor has been doing? In what specific areas have you been blessed? The children's program, women's or men's functions, small group Bible studies, or even a recent sermon? A great portion of a Pastor's job satisfaction comes from the spiritual growth of their flock. Will you share how you have been blessed by their efforts?
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