Psalm of the Day: Psalm 72:1-20
Wisdom of the Day: Ecclesiastes 10:1-10
Scripture Reading: Luke 6:20-26
Let us notice who they are, to whom our Lord addresses the solemn words, "WOE unto you!" Who are the people to whom our Lord says, "Woe unto you?" They are the men who refuse to seek treasure in Heaven because they love the good things of this world better; and will not give up their money, if need requires, for Christ's sake. They are the men who prefer the joys and so-called happiness of this world to joy and peace in believing; and will not risk the loss of the one in order to gain the other. They are those who love the praise of man more than the praise of God, and will turn their backs on Christ, rather than not keep in with the world. These are the kind of men whom our Lord had in view when He pronounced the solemn words, "Woe, woe unto you!"
The conditions of life which the world reckons desirable are the very conditions upon which the Lord pronounces "woes." Poverty, and hunger, and sorrow, and persecution are the very things which man labors to avoid. Riches, and fullness, and merriment, and popularity are precisely the things which men are always struggling to attain.
Do we really believe that poverty and persecution, endured for Christ's sake are positive blessings? Do we really believe that riches and worldly enjoyments, and popularity among men, when sought for more than salvation, or preferred to the praise of God are a certain curse? Do we really think that the favor of Christ, with trouble and the world's persecution is better than having money, and merriment, and a good name among men without Christ?
Prayer for the Day: Dear Lord, help me to seek eternal riches in Christ Jesus instead of worldly things that come to an end.
Action Plan: Evaluate what is most important to me - this world's wealth or success vs. heavenly riches. What do I strive to attain more of each day? What should my focus be?
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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