What does "prepare my meal" teach about prioritizing God's work in our lives? Focus Verse Luke 17:8: “‘Instead, will he not say, ‘Prepare my supper, and gird yourself to serve me while I eat and drink; and afterward you may eat and drink’?’” Setting the Scene • Jesus uses a familiar household picture: a servant returns from the field, yet the master immediately directs him to “prepare my meal.” • The servant’s own needs are real—he is tired and hungry—yet those needs wait until the master is satisfied. • The Lord applies the illustration in verses 9-10, teaching that disciples are bond-servants whose first allegiance is to their Master. Key Truths About Prioritizing God’s Work • God’s assignment takes precedence over personal comfort. • Obedience is measured by promptness, not convenience. • Service is rendered with the expectation of His approval, not personal reward. • Only after fulfilling the Master’s will does the servant attend to his own refreshment. Supporting Scriptures • Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” • John 4:34: “Jesus said to them, ‘My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work.’” • Haggai 1:4-5: The people’s houses were finished while the Lord’s house lay in ruins; God calls them to “consider your ways.” • 1 Corinthians 10:24: “No one should seek his own good, but the good of others.” Practical Ways to “Prepare His Meal” First • Begin each day by offering time, talents, and agenda to the Lord before addressing personal interests. • Treat every task—whether family responsibility, workplace duty, or ministry opportunity—as service rendered directly to Christ. • Guard the Lord’s time in Scripture, worship, and fellowship; decline lesser claims that infringe on those priorities. • Meet tangible needs of others even when resources feel scarce, trusting the God who later meets the servant’s needs (Philippians 4:19). • Finish commitments already made to Christ before seeking new ventures or leisure. Encouraging Outcome • When the servant prioritizes the Master, the Master ensures the servant is nourished afterward. • Placing God’s work first aligns the heart with His purposes, brings satisfaction no earthly meal can match, and bears fruit that endures into eternity. |
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