Pastor Gary's OYB Devotion Archive for April 8

“…For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more” (Luke 12:48 NKJV).

From: April 8, 2020

THE RESPONSIBILITY OF GIFTING AND KNOWLEDGE

Jesus told a parable to illustrate the importance of being ready for His return. Peter asked whether the parable was only for Christ’s disciples or for everyone. Jesus answered with another parable, concluding with the thought that the master’s judgment would be based on how much had been entrusted to each.

Without going into all of the implications of this parable, consider this one: The Lord has given each of us gifts and knowledge and He holds us responsible to be found using them upon His return. Each according to what he has and what he knows.

Are you using your gifts and knowledge with an understanding that we shall give an account on day? May the Lord Jesus find us faithful.

PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for the many blessings that You have bestowed on us. Lead us to be found faithful in putting our blessings to use for Your Kingdom. Strengthen us Lord in these changing times. Help us never to forget that today might be the Day of Your Son’s return. In Jesus’ name, amen.

“The servants who are ready and waiting for his return will be rewarded. I tell you the truth, he himself will seat them, put on an apron, and serve them as they sit and eat!” (Luke 12:37 NLT).

From: April 8, 2018

THE REWARD OF READINESS

Jesus told His disciples a parable about a master rewarding his servants because they were “ready and waiting for his return.” This is a parable about Christ’s return and the reward He will give to those who are “ready and waiting” for Him. He said that He will wait tables for them while they enjoy the banquet. Can you imagine this? Jesus leaning over you asking, “What would you like to drink? Can I get you some dessert?” O what a Master we serve! That He is willing even now to serve us. How we must be willing to serve others in His name!

“And the Lord said, “Who then is that faithful and wise steward…? (Luke 12:42 NKJV).

From: April 8, 2017

At least four spiritual principles were taught in this parable. 1. The Lord will come again.

2. The Lord might return unexpectantly at any time.

3. Faithfulness means being dependable to fulfill the responsibilities to which the Master has called you.

4. Faithfulness is based on what you do with the gifts God has given you. “To whom much is given, much is required.”

As the Lord asked Moses from the burning bush, “What’s that in your hand?” So, He asks you, “What are you doing with the calling and gifts I have given you?”

Will you be found to be a faithful and wise steward?

“For it is not a futile thing for you, because it is your life, and by this word you shall prolong your days in the land which you cross over the Jordan to possess” (Deuteronomy 32:47 NKJV)

From: April 8, 2015

Moses reminded the Israelites that the Word of God was real sustenance. He told them to never think it a “futile thing” to study and follow it, but to treat the Word as life itself. For as Moses and later Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Deut. 8:3: Matt.4:4). Believer, never think it a “futile thing” (“empty, useless”) to feed on God’s Word. For it is spiritual “life” to sustain you.

“Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave” (Proverbs 12:24 NLT)

From: April 8, 2014

Many aspire to leadership, yet few qualify. Many think this due to politics or birthright, but the few who work hard and find themselves elevated know better. Leadership comes to those who first serve well. Great leaders begin as great followers. Obey those in authority over you. Make their job easier. Make your boss look good. Work hard and those over you will take notice. Many want to steer the boat, but few volunteer to row. Yet, it is the callouses from rowing that prepare the leader to steer.

“The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor” (Proverbs 12:24 ESV)

From: April 8, 2013

A very practical proverb for those who desire achievement. It teaches us that the one who is “diligent” (Marked by persevering, painstaking effort; conscientiousness in accomplishing one’s duties; hardworking) will eventually be recognized and promoted to leadership positions. And the one who is “slothful” (Disinclined to work or exertion; lazy; slow and apathetic in behavior) will end up having to work menial jobs just to pay their debts. We make much of education these days, but not enough of hard work. ‘Work hard and don’t quit’ is a good word for those in secular as well as sacred work.

“You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected” (Luke 12:40)

From: April 8, 2012

The first-century disciples watched for Christ’s 2nd coming with expectation because they had seen Him return from the tomb. On this Resurrection Sunday let us be reminded that He is risen and that He is coming again! Are you ready?

“They are a nation without sense, there is no discernment in them” (Deut.32:28)

From: April 8, 2011

Words from Moses’ last song. A generation after he died, the words came true. Has this American generation forgotten what our forefathers knew? Are we a nation “without sense?”