How can we prioritize God's call over "fields" and "business" in our lives? Setting the Scene Matthew 22:5: “But they paid no attention and went away, one to his field, another to his business.” Recognizing the King’s Invitation • God’s summons is personal, urgent, and gracious (Hebrews 2:3). • He initiates; our role is immediate, obedient response (2 Corinthians 6:2). • Delay equals decline—eternity is at stake. Common Distractions: Fields and Business • “Field” = property, possessions, hobbies. • “Business” = career, profit, reputation. • Good gifts become idols when they outrank God (Exodus 20:3). • Excuses that sound reasonable still grieve the King (Matthew 22:8). Practical Steps to Prioritize God’s Call 1. Begin each day in the Word before work (Psalm 5:3). 2. Anchor the week with corporate worship (Hebrews 10:24-25). 3. Give firstfruits of time and money (Proverbs 3:9-10). 4. Trim commitments that crowd out ministry (Luke 14:33). 5. Keep Sabbath rhythms—productivity is not lord (Exodus 20:8-11). 6. Invite accountability (Proverbs 27:17). 7. Lead your household to the same priorities (Joshua 24:15). Walking in Obedience: Real-Life Applications • Pause to pray when deadlines press. • Choose assignments that advance the Gospel over ones that merely enrich (Mark 8:36). • Leverage assets for hospitality and evangelism (1 Pt 4:9-10). • Guard Sundays from habitual overtime (Matthew 6:31-33). • Step into missions or service before every financial detail is tidy (Genesis 12:1-4). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Matthew 6:33; Luke 14:18-20; Colossians 3:1-3; Mark 10:28-30; Haggai 1:3-9; Philippians 3:7-8; 1 Corinthians 7:29-31. Embracing the Banquet Let fields and businesses serve the Kingdom, never master it. Say yes to the King today; every earthly endeavor finds its rightful place. |