Forever Home in the Eternal Family of God

Daily Encouragement for the Family of God

30 November 2024

Reading From I Corinthians 9-11

 “Don’t you know that those who serve in the temple get their food from the temple, and that those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar?  In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” —I Corinthians 9:13-14

Some churches do not believe that ministers should be paid at all or that keeping them in poverty is somehow more spiritual. This presents a practical problem wherein those who are called by God to do His work are unable to devote themselves fully to focus on it. They are instead distracted by finding other means for providing for the material needs of themselves and their families.

This is not how God intended for His Kingdom to function. If it were, then all ministers would have to be either be independently wealthy or continually have their time and energy divided between two or more vocations. It is vital that churches take good care of those who have devoted themselves to tending the spiritual health, well being and growth of the church. Otherwise, churches place themselves in self-opposition by not adequately caring for those who care for them.

“Lord, I pray that You would forgive us for our corrupted views of finances. We repent and we ask for clarity and wisdom from Your Word and not our own opinions. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.”

And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages. —Luke 10:7

We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. —I Thessalonians 5:12-13

So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. —Acts 6:2

The elders who perform their leadership duties well are to be considered worthy of double honor (financial support), especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching [the word of God concerning eternal salvation through Christ]. —I Timothy 5:17