Numbers 32:6 "Shall your brethren go to war, and shall you sit here?"
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| © Linda Lee "We have received much by means of the efforts and sufferings of the saints in years gone by, and if we do not make some return to the assembly of Christ by giving her our best energies, we are unworthy to be enrolled in her ranks... The Master of the vineyard says, "Why do you stand here all the day idle?" What is the idler's excuse? Personal service of Yahushua becomes all the more the duty of all because it is cheerfully and abundantly rendered by some. The toils of devoted missionaries and fervent ministers shame us if we sit still in indolence. Shrinking from trial is the temptation of those who are at ease in tZion: they would fain escape the cross and yet wear the crown... If the most precious are tried in the fire, are we to escape the crucible? If the diamond must be vexed upon the wheel, are we to be made perfect without suffering? Who has commanded the wind to cease from blowing because our ship is in deep waters? Why and what fore should we be treated better than our Master? The Firstborn felt the rod, and why not the younger brethren? It is a cowardly pride which would choose a feather pillow and silk sheets for a soldier of the cross. Wiser by far are they who, being first resigned to the divine will, grow by the energy of grace to be pleased with it." |
A message from Charles Spurgeon.
(Adapted and modernized for today's reader.)
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i sense the necessity of unpacking the context of "idle" to expose utter busy-ness as well, which sounds like a contradiction in terms, but i am convinced the main premise is idleness in the business of the Kingdom, not general laziness. i think far to many in the congregations of America and elsewhere would comfort themselves with the fact they are busy doing "churchie" type activities every week (potlucks, book clubs, fundraisers, filling shoeboxes, special events, parties, concerts, church "services"--where no real service happens, sponsoring a two-thirds-world disadvantaged child, etc.), and that somehow excuses their lack of honestly sacrificing themselves entirely to do the Father's will instead of the countless traditions of their own devising and will.
i pray for strong conviction leading to repentance for all those waving the banner of Messiah in word and form, but not in true self-denial and sacrifice. i pray we fast from anything, however lawful, that may be hindering us from clearly hearing His voice or laying ourselves down on the altar in every area. i pray for the spirit of revelation to reveal to those desiring more of Him, what, like the rich young ruler, they need to do gain the heavenly treasure, a most amazing relationship with the Creator.
Glory to Yah.
Shalom and love in His service.
♥
Disclaimer: i do not agree with Charles Spurgeon doctrinally on many points, nor do i support his generally Augustinian/Calvinistic/Reformed positions or teachings in that respect; however, i do believe he was of the same Spirit Who has shed more light for our day. It is said by their fruit we would know them, and brother Spurgeon's work witnesses of his love and dedication to the Father of lights and of his service to the Messiah and His people within the scope of his limited knowledge, ability and influence. Glory to Yah.
