Scripture
1 Corinthians 9:22-23
I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in it's blessings.
Observation
The Apostle Paul was always looking for a common thread to identify himself with the needs and manner of life of the lost. He becomes all things to all people to be able to be used by God to save those who are in need of Jesus Christ, our Savior. He puts away his religious demeanor and humbles himself to meet people where they are. Why? To participate in the blessing of knowing the good news has set free another soul from the bondage of sin and despair.
Application
Never think yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment in accordance with the faith God has given you. (Romans 12:3)
Loving people means putting others above myself. Becoming a friend takes time and patience, sacrifice and transparency. Reaching out to the lost will require something of me. Loving means being real, honest, vulnerable, and available.
Prayer
Help me Lord to do all for the sake of the gospel. To go and tell the good news of Christ to those reaching out to You, Lord. Your kingdom come, Your will be done! That You might use me Lord - that's my prayer. A-men.
Scripture
Genesis 2:21-22 So the Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep, and while he was sleeping, He took one of the man's ribs and then closed it up with flesh. Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib He had taken out of the man, and He brought her to the man.
Observation
The Lord performs the first known surgery on man. He sedates him and takes a rib from his side and closes it up with flesh. God made a woman from the man's rib and when He finished, He brought her to the the man. They were united and the "two became one flesh."
Application
While sleeping, God performs the miraculous in man. He creates a woman - a helper, a companion, a friend, a wife and lover for the man who will no longer be alone. God is able to do the most amazing things when our hands are not in the mix of the things. While he was sleeping, God gave such a wonderful gift to man. God, Creator, Life-Giver, maker of heaven and earth does all things well.
Prayer
Father, how small minded I am. You were, You are, You ever will be! You spoke Your word and the earth was formed. While I sleep, while I rest and trust in Your unfailing love, You do great and mighty things that I do not know. You are my God and I trust in You and believe in You for the miraculous.
In Jesus Name, A-men.
