Enriched By God

Key verse: “That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge” (1 Corinthians 1:5).

William Shakespeare, the eminent English poet and playwright, in one of his plays wrote: “Be not afraid of greatness, some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them”.

The Corinthian Church was great. But they were neither born great nor did they achieve greatness but, of them it was said: “For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called” (1 Corinthians 1:26). Greatness was thrust upon them on the merit of Christ. For this, the great Apostle Paul was full of gratitude to God on their behalf. It was acknowledged here by Paul that they were enriched in everything - in all utterance and knowledge.

Beyond knowledge of sound doctrines, the Lord was so generous to that church that all the gifts and abundant grace of the Holy Spirit were possessed by its members in varying proportions. This church, where Paul spent about two years ministering, was very vibrant and members aspired for spiritual blessings and increase.

In the present age of materialism, most Christians have become so earthly-minded that their sense of value has been impaired. Success is now measured in terms of material prosperity and not spiritual progress. People, more earnestly covet material goods than spiritual gifts. We run after craze rather than grace. This calls for a rethink and value adjustment. It is high time we aligned with the Holy Spirit and sought to be truly enriched by Christ in everything that matters to God.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: True wealth is not measured in the currencies of this world but in grace.