MONDAY 22 August, 2016
Never Be Burdensome
But Barzillai said to the king, “How long have I to live, that I should go up with the king to Jerusalem? I am today eighty years old. Can I discern between the good and bad? Can your servant taste what I eat or what I drink? Can I hear any longer the voice of singing men and singing women? Why then should your servant be a further burden to my lord the king? - 2 Samuel 19:34-35
This is so cool––Barzillai recognized that if he went with David he would become such a burden. He was old, to the point of losing some of his youthful faculties. In his wisdom, he voiced what they both understood as a reality––he did not have much life ahead of him to live. Barzillai knew when to leave and retire.
This wise, old aged man would go back and become a blessing to the Lord. He was a person who waited on God. The Lord would allow him to enjoy his life to the very end––can you believe that?
Notice his words of integrity, he not only gave to David without expecting anything back; he also discerned that the king had greater needs than to provide for him in his old age. He had this great attitude––they need it more than I do.
The Apostle Paul had a great work ethic as a leader. He worked willingly with his hands and never took advantage of anyone financially:
For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God (1 Thessalonians 2:9).
Is integrity an integral part of your Christian character?
The three most important ingredients in Christian work are integrity, integrity, integrity.
~Charles Colson~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!