Psalm of the Day: Psalm 61
Wisdom of the Day: Ecclesiastes 2:18-26
Scripture Reading: Luke 5:27-32
We are taught, thirdly, in this passage that converted souls desire to promote the conversion of others. When Levi was converted and had made a feast on the occasion, he invited a great company of tax-collectors and others to share it. Most probably these men were his old friends and companions. He knew well what their souls needed, for he had been one of them. He desired to make them acquainted with that Savior who had been merciful to himself. Having found mercy, he wanted them also to find it. Having been graciously delivered from the bondage of sin, he wished others also to be set free.
This feeling of Levi will always be the feeling of a true Christian. It may be safely asserted that there is no grace in the man who cares nothing about the salvation of his fellow men. The heart which is really taught by the Holy Spirit will always be full of love, charity, and compassion towards others. The soul which has been truly saved by God will earnestly desire that others may experience the same salvation. A converted man will not wish to go to Heaven alone.
How is it with ourselves in this matter? Do we know anything of Levi's spirit after his conversion? Do we strive in every way to make our friends and relatives acquainted with Christ? Do we say as the Samaritan woman, "Come, see a man who told me everything that I ever did?" Do we cry to our brethren as Andrew did to Simeon, "We have found the Christ!"
These are very serious questions. They supply a most searching test of the real condition of our souls. Let us not shrink from applying it. There is not enough of a missionary spirit among Christians. It should not satisfy us, to be safe ourselves. We ought also to try to do good to others. All cannot go to the heathen but every believer should strive to be a missionary to his fellow men. Having received mercy we should be eager to share the gospel with others.
Prayer for the Day: Dear Lord, help me to have a passion for others and share the gospel with them.
Action Plan: Who does the God want me to share the gospel with today? How will I do it?
This devotional was taken from The Gospel of Luke by J.C. Ryle published in 1858
and adapted by Pastor Tim Lewis of New England Shores Baptist Church.
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