Providing for Ministers

  Even while he traveled and preached the Gospel, Paul worked for a living.  He was a tentmaker and he was able to ply his skill wherever he went.  Peter and some of the other disciples were fishermen.  They were not able to fish everywhere they went.  So they made their living by receiving offerings from those to whom they ministered.  Peter and the apostles did not travel alone.  They had their wives with them and perhaps even their children.
  Paul tells us this (1 Corinthians 9:1-12) to make a point.  He has a right to hospitality, to be married and to be paid for his ministry to the people.  Just because he does not claim those rights, as the others do, he is not less of an apostle.  
  What we give to ministers does not always have to be money.  We can provide hospitality, food, or clothing.  We can pave the way to further places of ministry.  We can uphold them in prayer. Let us consider not only their daily needs, but their long-term needs also.  Most don't have retirement plans or college funds for their children.  They may need a vacation or a sabbatical.

  For Reflection: Whenever someone has ministered to me have I always given according to my means?  Have I offered a kind word and thanks for their ministry?  Have I witnessed to other people about how God touched me through them?
  Let us pray.  Jesus, I ask your forgiveness for being stingy about giving to ministers.  I recognize now that they have the same needs I do, and that in giving to them I am giving to you.  Please help me to make an inventory of all of those who have touched me whether in person or over the internet and allow me to make a deposit into their continuing work for you.

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