THURSDAY February 22, 2018
Defense against Accusations
My defense to those who examine me is this: Do we have no right to eat and drink? Do we have no right to take along a believing wife, as do also the other apostles, the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? - 1 Corinthians 9:3-5
Paul had received a letter from someone in the church accusing him of taking money from people, but he was blameless. Paul challenged the letter and brought up the fact that he had worked with his own hands for his provision. The Lord was the one who provided for his needs. He also defended his right to financial support; if it was given and not asked for, it was perfectly fine to accept a love offering for support. Yet, Paul did not take financial support from anybody. I love Paul and the way he worked.
Paul had never ripped off or cheated anyone. He had not fleeced the flock of God. He never asked anything from anybody and never talked about his needs. Paul was not guilty; he gave of himself and was blameless. Paul also made the point that, if he or those with him were free in Jesus Christ, could they not have a wife, like Peter and the other Apostles? So when they traveled they were not alone?
The subject of financial support brings up an important issue. Christians should not bring attention to their financial needs in public prayer or by simply asking for support. None of the Apostles did that. Nobody really needs to know about our lack of finances. The Lord is the one who must supply our needs. When God provides, you know it. Chuck Smith taught us, “Where God guides, He provides.” How we need to learn this lesson!
If you are always talking about your needs to someone, you will become known as a person who is not being sincere. Guard your conversations and be blameless. Our provision has to come from the Lord. Do not take money from people. Years later, they may come back and accuse you.
Christians should be springs, not sponges.
~John Blanchard~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!
