May 8

” Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds…”

 (1 Timothy 6:18 NIV)

 
Today’s verse tells us that our treasure need not constitute money but rather it can constitute good deeds. It appears as though Paul is telling Timothy that a good investment can be made. Invest in good deeds! It will provide dividends. Paul continues: ”In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” (1 Tim 6:19). The message is the same as when Jesus says: ”Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matt 6:19-21).

Ann Kiemel tells of her father, in one of her books, who often said to her, when a child: ”Ann, remember, it pays to always follow Jesus”. Those words were etched into her young mind and became a guiding star for her in life. And not only for her. When I read the words they became attached to my heart and they have been a reminder when sometimes life has been difficult and I’ve been tempted to turn away from God. ”Remember, it pays to always follow Jesus”. In the end that’s what counts.

Prayer
Lord, help us to remember these simple words today, that it always pays to follow You. And help us to invest in good deeds.