A Work!

Like a soldier and an athlete. Living with a singular focus on what is of utmost importance and following the rules of God; His Will being acknowledged as the authority on which our life and hope are based. Is that how we are approaching our Christian walk in Christ? Consider, now, the third analogy Paul provided here for Timothy.

We again read. . .
"(3) Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. (4) No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. (5) An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. (6) It is THE HARD-WORKING FARMER who ought to have the first share of the crops. (7) Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything." ( 2 Timothy 2:3-7 ESV)

The HARD-WORKING FARMER! Though the farmer waits through the appropriate seasons for various crops, and depends on God for the sunshine and rain that helps them to grow, the crops still don't just happen by themselves. FRUITFULNESS IMPLIES THE NEED FOR WORK. Effort must be put forth. The lazy farmer would go hungry and lose their living.

I like the express that says, "Pray as though everything depends on God and work as though everything depends on you." Would that not seem to be a powerful combination? Though we depend on God to fulfill His Will, there is still EFFORT to be put forth on our part. Yes, one waters and another plants and it is God Who gives the increase. ( 1 Corinthians 3:6-8) However, that still implies there is the planter and the waterer. There is the sower and the reaper. There is the laborer who is rewarded by God for the work performed.

God desires for us to be tools in His hands in carrying out His Will. DILIGENCE is expected on our part. Success comes after work, not before! May we press on as "God's fellow workers" ( 1 Corinthians 3:9 ESV), allowing Him to do His work in and through us for His good pleasure. ( Philippians 2:13) We can then live in expectation of sharing in the blessing of the harvest of the good things of God.

Have a great day KEEPING THE HAND TO THE PLOW!
Carl

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