New Testament passage for Fri., Dec. 7, 2012: III John 1:1-15
Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers. III John 1:2 (NASB)
Most of the time we get life backwards. The Bible teaches that we are primarily spiritual beings. Secondarily, we are mental and physical. Our natural tendencies are to cater to the physical first, then the mental. The last thing that gets cared for usually is the spiritual. But, this is backwards.
Jesus said, "Seek FIRST the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you" (Matt. 6:33). These "other things" are food, clothing, bank account, physical comfort. Life can be a hectic rat's race of meeting one's own needs. God says, "Trust Me, truly trust Me, and I will take care of you."
Soul care is an important thing. The best part of you is on the inside! It does no good to dress up the outside while you are still a wreck on the inside. It's time for your soul - the hidden inner you - to become healthy and strong.
In fact, if your inner man becomes healthy and prosperous, there is a direct result of physical, social, financial, occupational benefit. God will fight for you. He will drop blessing on you. When your soul is in line with Him, it puts you in the place where God can freely release His capabilities.
This has been called THE BLESSED LIFE. But, it is not centered on the blessings. It is centered on the RIGHT PRIORITIES.
One last word: all of this shows the heart of the Father. We DESIRES to bless you. He is not a grumpy old miser. He is liberal in His grace and provision. He asks but one thing: put Him first.
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