The mistake we often make as believers in Christ is to think that the “palace” is our reward.
Our testimonies are filled with how the doors to the “palace” were opened to us.
It’s a short one today…
1 Timothy 6:17-19 (KJV)
“Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.“
Listen brethren, God gives us all things richly to enjoy but we do not put our strength in these things.
Often, what we call a reward is a test of faith… It’s further responsibility.
We celebrate the coronation of David but forget it was another level of his walk with God. We celebrate the appointment of Joseph but forget he was to be responsible for the economic condition of Egypt… And in God’s plan, Israel as well .
Some responsibility may come with some levels of convenience but the convenience or enjoyment is not the crux of that level. It is the responsibility.
This is why Paul will say that he has learnt to be content in all things whether in plenty or in lack.
Listen friend, an increase in your income doesn’t mean an increase in your standard of living… This is the other side… A decrease in your income doesn’t mean a decrease in your standard of living either … However, in all these things, you can live content whether your standard of living drops or rises.
This is a short post, like I said, just to encourage you.
I have learnt to abound does not mean I have learnt to live like a rich man. It means I have learnt to remain content and faithful when I have plenty. I have learnt not to put my hope in the uncertainty of riches. I have learnt to be a good steward.
Whether I abound or I Abase, in both situations, I live by faith not by my income or resources.
So brethren, the palace is not the rest, Jesus is. Do not anchor your hope or expectations on the exalted places He has promised you. Anchor your all on Him. He is your satisfaction.
The palace is a place of responsibility, a place of service. The rich man said to his servant “well done good and faithful servant, you’ve been faithful in little, come and be governor over 10 cities“.
That sounds like a reward… Hmmm not in my opinion. I think that’s more responsibility.
However, “Enter into my rest” is a reward.
So my point with this post, my message to you is until you hear those words, “enter into my rest”, if you’re granted access into the palace, do not substitute faith for pleasure and if you’re on the streets, do not substitute faith for murmuring for we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
The palace is full of trials and temptations as the streets. They are both to refine our faith, strengthen our hope and draw us closer to God.
Shalom Adelphoi.
I’ll write to you next week by God’s grace.
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Ancient Word 
