A few years back, while lost in my personal study, a verse leapt off the page at me. I read it as if for the very first time, and it stirred up a flurry of questions in my heart. I knew then it was a gentle nudge to pause and reflect on my journey.
That verse was I Corinthians 16:15
I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it
is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the
ministry of the saints,)
Did you catch that word—“addiction”?
As humans, we slip into patterns—habits that quietly weave themselves into the fabric of our lives until they become second nature. Sometimes, these habits grow into addictions or obsessions. We act without a second thought, because they have already become part of who we are.
These habits or addictions can shape us for better or for worse, depending on what they are and how we choose to see them.
As a Christian, your habits could be a good thing or a bad thing (in terms of sin, not being Godly, or being moderate).
In a world buzzing with noise, flashing adverts, endless TV shows, the lure of gaming, and the pull of social media obsessions, it is all too easy—even for believers—to get swept away if we are not watchful.
I found myself speechless as I read Apostle Paul’s message about the house of Stephanas. They were an ordinary Christian family, much like yours and mine, yet something about them shone brightly.
It was their passion, their holy obsession, that made even Apostle Paul take notice.
I am certain those around them could not help but notice, too. This family was truly addicted to the ministry of the saints.
It was not just Papa Stephanas; Mama and all the children were wholeheartedly involved in the ministry. Every one of them was devoted to advancing God’s Kingdom through their service to the saints.
That’s when I began to question myself—and now, I invite you to do the same.
What
is your true addiction?
Are you addicted to advancing God’s Kingdom, or are you more committed to pursuing your own desires?
4 Qualities
of Those Addicted To The Ministry
1. They are committed to others in faith:-
They are not about their own business, fame or popularity. They genuinely help the faith of other believers. They had a heart for others. That drove them to have an addiction.
As every
man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards
of the manifold grace of God.
I Peter 4:10
2. They love God:-
You can’t have a heart for the saints without being sold out for God. Your love for God is what makes you serve Him with all you’ve got. Even when it is hard,
you love God and submit to His Will.
3. They are not plastic people:-
There are a lot of those around these days. This household was not waiting for some position, title, or financial rewards. They did all they did for the sake of the gospel.
My little children, let us
not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
I John 3:18
Are you doing what you are doing for your sake or for the sake of Jesus?
People can differentiate an original from a plastic. It may take a long time, but surely there is a day of reckoning for a deceiver. See Titus 1:16 (click to read online)
The Bible gives a clear description of those who have nothing to do with advancing the gospel for the sake of the kingdom, but rather pursue their own selfish desires. Read Philippians 3:18-19 (click to read online)
Is Jesus in all that you do?
4. They are Praiseworthy:-
When you serve God consistently even in your secret place, while it seems no one notices you…God in fact does. He will reward you openly, as He did with this household.
Apostle Paul, in the following verses, encouraged the people to follow such a people.
That ye submit yourselves
unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth. I am glad of the
coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on
your part they have supplied. For they have
refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such.
I Corinthians 16: 16-18
People like this bring refreshment to others. They do not drain you; instead, they long to fill you up. They are a true blessing to both the church and the community.
Amazing, isn’t it?
Let’s Pray…
Lord Jesus, help me to be addicted to the things that concern the faith. Help me to love what you love and to be committed enough to ministry. Help me to use the little in my hand for the ministry you have committed into my hands in Jesus Name. Dear Jesus, let my life be a soothing, refreshing, and encouraging presence to fellow brethren in faith, in Jesus name. Amen
By His Great Grace,
Ifeoma Samuel
What happens when God’s people fail?
Can Failure be a good thing in disguise?
Whether in failed relationships, careers, life choices and expectations, parenting, marriages etc. in one aspect or another we have had our fair share of failure. Getting back up is something we must all do.
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