Barriers to All Things

All things to all people also means the people on the inside of the church.

Matthew 19:16,17,18,19,20,21 Jesus says, “If you want to be perfect (complete) and be all things to all people, empty all your resources and give it to someone else.” Jesus’s instructions are specific.

There are people who need things from me in the congregation. Take the value from yourself and give to someone else who needs it. Do I have tunnel vision? Am I aware of others who need encouragement? Am I willing to give up my time and face my fears?

The rich young ruler had great possessions. He wasn't willing to give up something precious that would benefit someone else. Every person has something of great value.

When I gather with other Christians, do have a mindset of get and not give? What did I bring to give? Will I go home with what I came with?

There are barriers keep me from being all things. I must put these barriers out front so I can see them and remove them.

Acts 5:1 Their story is about keeping back something of value. Do I have a song or testimony that someone poor in spirit needs to hear? Am I holding back my light at work? Do I worry about my light affecting my relationships? Am I ashamed? What is the barrier? What am I keeping back? Am I acting as if I have given all?

1 Corinthians 6:19 When I go through things, I want others to see the grace of God shining in me - not that I am strong.

My time, talents, and testimony are not mine. It is due to God. I don’t get to choose to withhold when I could edify. Do I choose to withhold just because I don’t feel like it? I am my own barrier.

I leave the light on for those that leave God, not construct a barrier.

Matthew 26:7 Don’t wait for everything to personally work out before blessing someone else. What did I give?

Luke 7:37 The value was what was inside the box. It couldn’t be accessed until the box was broken. When the disciples saw the sacrifice, they were indignant and upset. They called it a waste. Do not judge the sacrifice of others! Do I ever judge that it’s a waste of time for me to talk to someone else?

What have I poured or sacrificed of value? God wants my time, talent, and affection as an expression of genuine, organic, and passionate love for God.

Am I hesitant to speak to others? I may be the only Jesus some will ever see. Am I creating my own barrier?

Psalm 92:14 I can’t be comfortable and wait for heaven. Who am I bringing with me? If God allows me to live, I still have things to do and God has a use for me. I still have value and fruit.

Peter was walking on water but began to drown. In the midst of test and trials, I can ask God for help so I can be all things.

John 6:5 Jesus was proving Phillip by His question. Phillip did not think they had enough to meet the need. He thought any attempt with what they had was a waste of time and wouldn't make a difference. I may feel like what I have is not enough, especially compared to others. When Jesus took what was available and gave thanks, it met the need. One of the barriers is lack of thankfulness for what I do have.