"how I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house" (Acts 20:20) This made me ponder whether I have kept back anything to myself that might have been helpful to others.
You know how tv drama of ancient times always show the shi fu keeping some secret martial arts moves to themselves because they did not want their disciples to fully learn what they know, for fear that they would become better than them?
In the kingdom of God, it should be the other way round and Paul has set us an example. He gave all that he has to the believers that he shepherd, his time, his effort, his energy, his money, his heart, his love, and most importantly, the word of God.
"For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God." (Acts 20:27)
As a teacher in school, I wonder if I have kept back anything that might have been helpful to my students. It could be that little extra time to listen to a student in need, or making the extra effort when students are always absent from school to call and find out why.
As a Christian, have I kept back anything from fellow believers or from God? Have I shunned to declare the whole counsel of God to someone? This is scary because Paul's words suggest that if we have shunned, or if we have not declare the complete whole truth, we would be guilty of someone's blood (Acts 20:26)!
I often feel that I have not done enough, whether towards God, or towards fellow believers, or towards man in general. When was I ever stoned for the Word of God? When did I ever have to flee for my life? When have I even perspire much for someone else, or for God?
We are all living in a far too comfortable place. Many times, we are not so willing to go all out for others, or for God. Because doing that requires much mental and physical energy, and we are reluctant to tire ourselves out like that. But reading Acts, and seeing Paul and the other apostles and disciples going all the way for the kingdom of God, makes me ashamed. Although I know I am limited in what I can do, with the help of God, surely I can accomplish some things. The important question is, have I kept back anything?
Have I kept back time for myself? Have I kept back money for my own enjoyment? Have I kept back love that others need? Have I kept back the truth because of pride?
Some things I hope to do one day:
Volunteer and preaching work in a developing country
Share the truth with my students and their family
Be a listening ear and a counselor to whoever is in need
and of course, share the salvation grace with my own family members
1 comment:
Straight out, I know I am a person who likes to rationalise things and so when I read of this verse Acts 20:20, I had to read the rest of your sharing too. Interesting how you pointed out the ancient Chinese masters will keep secrets from their disciples, which made me think-am I always keeping the best of things for myself? Then when you pointed out the things that a teacher must do, reflecting upon yesterday in church, I don't think I did a good job of giving more and giving freely. Thanks for the questions of reflection of whether "have I...?"
It would be nice to fulfil those things that you hope for if it is God's will, or when it's His time.
d.
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