Scripture Reading: Luke 7:37–38

Introduction

A. In light of Jesus’ revelation regarding His imminent death, there was very little that anyone could do, but the gospel speaks of a certain woman who did what she could.

B. If your life were examined by the Lord today (Matthew 25:14–30), would He say that you have done what you could?

Discussion

I. The Bible tells of those who did what they could.

A. Rahab did what she could (Joshua 2, Hebrews 11:30).

B. Ruth did what she could (Ruth 2:23).

C. A certain poor widow did what she could (Luke 21:1–4).

II. The Scriptures also tell of others who didn’t do what they could.

A. Eli could not force his sons to do right, but he could have restrained them (1 Samuel 2:13–29; Deuteronomy 21:18–21; Proverbs 22:13–14).

B. Saul could have fought Goliath himself, but he let a young shepherd boy do it for him (1 Samuel 17:33–37).

C. When he sinned, David could have repented, but he tried to cover his sin to no avail (2 Samuel 11:5–17).

D. Zedekiah couldn’t stop the Babylonian invasion, but he could have saved Jerusalem from destruction, not to mention himself and his family (Jeremiah 38:14–23; 2 Kings 25:4–7).

Conclusion

A. As you survey your life to this present day, can you honestly say that you have done what you could?

B. We serve a Master who is “able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or thing” (Ephesians 3:20), and we can do all things through Him when He gives us the strength (Philippians 4:13).