Tag: Isaiah 26:1-3
Father and example in the Gospel
Scripture reading for August 30th: Isaiah 26-29, Psalm 65, 1st Corinthians 4
1st Corinthians 4: 10-15 “We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are held in honor, but we in disrepute. To the present hour we hunger and thirst, we are poorly dressed and buffeted and homeless, and we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we entreat. We have become, and are still, like the scum of the world, the refuse of all things. I do not write these things to make you ashamed, but to admonish you, my beloved children.. For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the Gospel. I urge you then, be imitators of me.”
The early apostles were considered fools by the world and even by some in the church. Their lives were examples of sacrifice and hard work to meet their own needs and also to minister to others. By their ministry, many were saved and introduced into God’s family. This process caused Paul to consider them his spiritual ‘children’. Paul encouraged those in Corinth who had been saved under his ministry to follow his example and live unselfishly for the sake of Christ Jesus and His Gospel message. What the world thinks of us means nothing. Pleasing Christ by living by faith in faithfulness to His Word is all that truly matters.
Isaiah 26:1-3 “In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: “We have a strong city; He sets up salvation as walls and bulwarks. Open the gates that the righteous nation that keeps faith may enter in. You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.”
Prayer: Father God, thank You for those You called as the first Apostles. Thank You for their lives of sacrifice and their obedience to the Holy Spirit that inspires me today to live a life of sacrifice and dedication to You. Thank You for Your perfect peace given to those whose trust is in Christ Jesus. I look forward to the New Jerusalem and Christ’s reign as King of Kings! I am blessed You chose me!
Psalm 65:4 “Blessed is the one You choose and bring near, to dwell in Your courts! We shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your House, the holiness of Your Temple.”