Support the ‘Ole Fashioned Way

Text: Luke 8:1-3 Theme: Jesus and the disciples had the company and support of others as they traveled. Key verses: “Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases…” (v. 1-2) “…These women were helping to support them out of their own means.” (v. 3) What God said to me: Dwayne, there are a couple important principles for you to grasp today. The first one is that doing my will is often inconvenient and challenging. Jesus had not a place to lay his head — ie. a place he could call home. He and those who followed him often had to sleep in undesirable places and eat undesirable foods. They were not catered to and pampered. And they certainly could not hold up in one location and expect everyone to come find them. Jesus went out and sought those who needed help — no matter what the cost to him personally. Need I have to point out the application here for you, my servant and follower? Secondly, Jesus didn’t rely on his miracle-making abilities to provide their needs. He willingly choose the ‘ole fashioned way to get financial and provisional support — through the help of others. The women who traveled with them took from their own pockets to help feed and clothe Jesus and the twelve disciples. But notice how these very women were among those Jesus had used his miracle powers to heal. He had met their needs; thus, they were determined to help meet his. Lest you miss this vital principle, I will lay it out clearly for you: I have not empowered you for you. I have placed in you the power of my risen Son so you can help others. Of course, I will meet your needs. You can and should pray and ask me too. And the Phil. 4:13 truth applies to you and your family just as much as does to those you meet. However, be careful that you don’t misunderstand or misapply my power through you. You have been given spiritual gifts and spiritual blessings so you can pour them out on those who need my healing touch. I will always provide your needs as long as you provide for others. What I said to God: Lord, thank You for speaking so clearly to me this morning. Wow. I never cease to be amazed at Your wisdom and the insights in Your Word. I have read this passage many times, but I’ve never seen these truths until today. Please keep growing and changing me. May Your Word be a two-edged sword to cut to the very heart of me and show me my faults and deepest needs. I pray that my wife and boys as well. May we use whatever gifts we have received to serve others for Your glory. I have no doubt then that You will always provide for us — even if it is the “‘ole fashioned way”!