[275 words]
We usually get pretty indignant when we realize that someone has “used us,” don’t we? Read the following verse two or three times and spend some time thinking about what Paul is saying to the Christians at Philippi.
“But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you” (Philippians 2:17).
He is saying, “In order for your sacrifice to be complete, it will likely require that I be used up [a drink offering was consumed when used as an offering on an altar]!And if that’s what’s required…I’m happy to do it.”
And I ask myself, “Am I willing to say that? Am I willing to be used up in order that my brother’s ‘sacrifice and service of faith’ will be complete?”
Husbands are to love our wives like that. – “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” – Ephesians 5:25. Jesus loved us that much, didn’t he?
So, the issue I must settle in my mind is, “Am I willing to ‘be used’ for the right cause or the right person?” Because the reality is, I am being used up—for something! Or maybe for nothing! I have the choice. I choose the altar upon which I’ll be used up. Some choose the altar of pleasure…or fame…or power…or independence…or materialism. We may or may not achieve it, but either way, we’re used up.
Choose wisely. Don’t accept someone else’s agenda. Pick your own. Make it worthwhile. Make it eternally worthwhile.
Ken Stegall
Jackson St. church of Christ
Monroe, LA