THE PROFIT MOTIVE

     God appeals to the profit motive in His people. He does not appeal to a corrupted view of profit, but to a noble one. A godly view considers the destiny of oneself to be of primary importance. As it is written, "Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee" (1 Tim. 4:16). Salvation, in all of its aspects, appeals to  individual interests. There is forgiveness of personal sin, strengthening of the individual, and hope of eternal reward. The removal of these things would make salvation impossible to appropriate. It is the appeal to lawful personal interests that makes the Gospel so attractive.

     Herein is a remarkable thing. Man, by nature, seeks his own self interests. As it is written, "For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it . . . " (Eph. 5:29). Self esteem is an unavoidable part of the natural makeup of humankind. However, we must NOT make the gratification of temporal lusts and ambitions out focus. On this point, we are deny ourselves, refusing to gratify our lower  nature (Matt. 16:24; Lk. 14:26). If we "live after the flesh," or in fleshly self interests, we are apprised, we will "die" (Rom. 8:13). If these things are so, how is it that God appeals to personal interests?

     There are at least three ways to deal with personal gratification. FIRST, one can cast all hope of glory aside, and energetically pursue the gratification of fleshly appetites. This will lead one to inevitable condemnation. SECOND, one can retreat into the practice of self-abuse, like the monks of bygone days. However, starvation and self-flagellation, together with senseless and punishing disciplines, will not achieve merit or bring the commendation of God. THIRD, one can engage in a quest for  higher personal benefit-- eternal glory! 

     In salvation, there is a strong appeal to the latter quest. The one who believes and is baptized will be SAVED (Mark 16:16). The one who seeks is the very one that will FIND (Matt. 7:7). When we lay up treasures in heaven, we lay them up for OURSELVES (Matt. 6:19). The reason why godly individuals run patiently the race set before them is their consideration of the "PRIZE." They are running to obtain it (1 Cor. 9:24).

     This truth cannot be overstated. Behold the appeal to personal interest in the promises of God. "But if any man love God, THE SAME IS KNOWN OF HIM (God)" (1 Cor. 8:3). "And not us not be weary in well doing, for in due season WE SHALL REAP if we faint not" (Gal. 6:9). "Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, THE SAME SHALL HE RECIEVE of the Lord, whether he be bond or free" (Eph. 6:8). 

      The promise of "eternal life" is God's principal promise (Tit. 1:1), and that is at a  personal level. James adds another word on this point, "Draw nigh to God, AND HE WILL DRAW NIGH UNTO YOU" (James 4:8). The first admonition to those in Christ was, "Save YOURSELVES from this untoward generation" (Acts 2:40). And, who can forget the admonition of Paul, "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not  is in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out YOUR OWN SALVATION with fear and trembling" (Phil. 2:12). Let no soul feel guilty because they are engaged in an earnest quest for blessing from God! God appeals to those engaged in such efforts! His promises, furthermore, are designed to awaken strong involvement in such pursuits. 

PRAYER POINT: Father, I thank you that You have not drawn us with the commandments, but with Your promises.. I love Your Law, and have hidden it in my heart. By Your grace, I have found the light of Your promises make them precious to me, enabling me to obey them. In Jesus' name, I thank You for such a wonderul arrangement!

-- MONDAY: WHAT DO YOU THINK? --