The apostle Paul wrote the church in Corinth, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Cor 10:31 NIV) Similarly, he encouraged the Colossians, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him…. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,” (Col 3:17 and 3:23 NIV). Maybe Paul didn’t have writing specifically in mind, but I think that his statements have enough latitude to allow it.
Charles Spurgeon, nineteenth century evangelist, being the prolific writer, clearly valued the written word as a means to convey his message. Concerning this, Spurgeon wrote, “Courteous reader, throughout another year we have endeavored, month by month, to provide for your entertainment and edification. For both, because the first is to the most of men needful to produce the second, and also because God hath joined them together, and no man should put them asunder” (Sword & Trowel, Preface, 1875).1
Writing was one gift that Spurgeon used to reach his audience; and he did this in a way that was enjoyable to read, while encouraging thoughtful reflection. Just as Peter urged is in 1 Peter 4:10, Spurgeon used this gift to serve others as a faithful steward of God’s grace in its various forms. When we recognize God as our origin, we instinctively desire to be a more perfect reflection of his glory; and we gravitate towards alignment with his will, becoming stewards of his grace.
As a faithful steward, I wisely use the gifts I have received to minister to others or, in other words, to love my neighbor as myself. This Jesus ranked as the second greatest command, the first being to love God with all heart and with all your soul and with all your mind (Matt 22: 34 – 40). When I use my gifts in ministry to others, God is glorified; and I come closer to aligning with both of these two greatest commands. As I pour out, God pours in. I can’t help but wonder if this is what Jesus meant when he said in Matt 18:18 (NIV), “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
1lucidbooks, “7 Writing Tips from Charles Spurgeon,” 2/22/2016. Retrieved from https://lucidbookspublishing.com/7-writing-tips-from-charles-spurgeon/?fbclid=IwAR3uUmjb2jOP8MyZ7AQEvU_MIYHI5QYC-lDrBTfVOZNvSGQUosJxqeLrZNg on 1/4/2020
