Reluctant Retiree

From time to time most people receive some compliments or awards.  It can come in the form of a simple thank you from a friend. Or we may receive some recognition from our company or an organization.

II Corinthians10:17-18 says, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” Worldly rewards and awards will come our way, but they quickly fade from our memories. Commendations from the Lord for His children last forever. Those who trust in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord are called saints, ambassadors, ministers of reconciliation, living stones, bride of Christ, chosen race, royal priesthood, holy nation, brothers and sisters, joint heirs with Christ,  and sons and daughters of Almighty God. Now those are commendations that transform ourlives forever.

Sometimes we do things without realizing the far reaching consequences that our actions will produce. It could be an off the cuff comment that we make that subsequently affects relationships. It may be a good deed that impacts lives down the line. On this side of eternity we will probably not know how we have affected many lives.

II Corinthians 9:10-11 says, “He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.” God puts into our minds and hearts everything we need to produce good works and grow in righteousness. When we do these things other people are also blessed and give thanksgiving to God. Let God multiply the harvest of good works through you today.

I am an avid baseball fan. During this time of the year teams are trying to complete their rosters with the best players to win a championship. Players try to get as much money as they can and teams offer what they think that they can afford. However, each team has a limited amount of resources from which to draw. We all experience this dilemma. We want to do certain things, but our resources only allow us to do so much.

II Corinthians 9:8 says, “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” Whatever you need and whenever you need it, God gives you an abundance of grace to meet your need. God’s resources are not limited in any way. Plus He loves His children and loves to extend grace to us.