Religion & Spirituality
Endure hardship with us like a GOOD SOLDIER of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer. Similarly, if anyone competes as AN ATHLETE, he does not receive the victor’s crown unless he competes according to the rules. The HARDWORKING FARMER should be the first to receive a share of the crops. Think over these three illustrations, and may the Lord help you to understand how they apply to you. 2 Timothy 2:3-7 (NIV/TLB) Giving God My Best . . . 1. Like an effective soldier, I must count the cost. Like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. 2 Timothy 2:3B-4 (NIV) Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 2:3 (NIV) Live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:2 (NIV) 2. Like the strong athlete, I must focus on the prize. If anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules. 2 Timothy 2:5 (NASB) In a race everyone runs, but only one person gets first prize. So run your race to win. To win the contest you must deny yourselves many things that would keep you from doing your best. An athlete goes to all this trouble just to win a blue ribbon or a silver cup, but we do it for a heavenly reward. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25A (TLB) 3. Like a wise farmer, I must be generous. Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (NLT) “Give, and it will be given to you . . . For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38 (HCSB) Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the first and best part of all your income. Proverbs 3:9 (GW)