Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–
June 27– Evening
by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff
“Let every man (whether slave or free, circumcised or not) remain in the same calling in which he was called.”
—1 Corinthians 7:20
Some persons have the foolish notion that the only way in which they can live for God is by becoming ministers, missionaries, or Bible teachers. Sadly, how many would be shut out from opportunities to magnify the Most High, if this were the case. Dear one, it is not office, but earnestness; it is not position, but grace which will enable us to glorify God.
God is most surely glorified in the tradesman who is a godly worker, who uses his tools and sings of the Savior’s love– indeed, glorified far more than in many Church officials who glory in their outward office but perform scanty duties. The name of Jesus is glorified by the poor, uneducated workman who goes about his duties and blesses his God, or speaks to his fellow workers along the way, as much as by the popular preacher who travels throughout the country preaching the gospel.
God is glorified by our serving him in our proper vocations. Take care, dear reader, that you do not forsake the path of duty by leaving your occupation. Take care you do not dishonor your profession while in it. Think little of yourself, but do not think too little of your calling. Every lawful trade may be sanctified by the gospel to the noblest ends. Turn to the Bible, and you will find the most menial forms of labor connected either with most daring deeds of faith or with persons whose lives have been examples of holiness.
Therefore, don’t be discontented with your calling. Whatever God has made your position, or your work, remain in that, unless you are quite sure that he calls you to something else. Let your first care be to glorify God to the utmost of your power where you are. Fill your present sphere to his praise, and if he needs you in another he will show it to you. This evening lay aside exasperating ambition and embrace peaceful content. [M&E]
