Date: Sunday, 3rd September, 2023
Text: Luke 16: 19-31
Author: Pastor Adedeji Fadehan
Exhortation:
The rich and the poor have this in common: The Lord is the maker of them all. Proverbs 22:2.
Poverty is not necessarily a sign of God’s disapproval or displeasure. In order to confirm this, take careful note of Jesus’ letter to the leader of the poor church of Smyrna, “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich).” Revelation 2:9. However, to the rich church at Laodecea, the Lord, sent this message, “Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” Revelation 3:17
Apostle James asked an important question, worthy of note, “Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?” James 2:5.
Lazarus was poor materially but rich in love, faith and hope towards God. He had certain blessings money could not buy, namely the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit was given to him as a deposit guaranteeing what is to come. 2 Corinthians 5:5. He was well connected to the Almighty God and popular in Heaven. His name was written and registered as a glorious citizen of Heaven.
Though he was beggarly, he was not abandoned by God. His earthly sufferings were not worth comparing with the glory that was revealed in him. He did not allow his challenges, trouble or hardship or lack to separate him from the love of God.
It is better to be poor and upright than to be rich and perverse. Proverbs 28:6
The angels of God were Lazarus’ body guards- a spiritual security system which the rich man lacked. It was not his poverty that helped him but his holy relationship with God. When he died the angels carried him to Abraham’s bosom. May you end well in Jesus name.
Prayer Nugget: Father, no matter what I go through; please help me to remain holy and end well in Jesus name.