Sure-Thing Investing
Fierce troubles came down on the people of those churches, pushing them to the very limit. The trial exposed their true colors: They were incredibly happy, though desperately poor. The pressure triggered something totally unexpected: an outpouring of pure and generous gifts. I was there and saw it for myself. They gave offerings of whatever they could… ~ 2 Corinthians 8:2-3
Remember: A stingy planter gets a stingy crop; a lavish planter gets a lavish crop. I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting. God loves it when the giver delights in the giving. ~ 2 Corinthians 9:6 (MSG)
Daily Bible Reading: Acts 17
We had a great weekend at Timberlake with an encouraging talk about how we each can have a great impact on the people and world around us… Part of what was shared focused on the point: PERSONALLY INVESTING OUR GIFTS AND RESOURCES.
In today’s Bible passage the Apostle Paul is talking about the churches in Macedonia… What an amazing heart behind their giving! Pastor Rick Warren, one of the best known Christian leaders in the world, talks about how joy and generosity always go together. That is absolutely true! So often when we think we’re giving to help or bless someone else, it’s us who gets blessed the most!
Ultimately, giving and generosity are an expression of faith. A true test of how much we trust God is the way we handle our money — because it shows what’s important to us. Often when we live and give according to His principles and direction, the result is blessing. But we can’t miss the reason why: It is so we can be generous, help other people, and do good in the world. When we say, “God, I’m going to do what you want me to do no matter what my bank balance says, or how much job security I have, or if I feel like it” God will provide all we need to make it happen. When we follow His lead he will take whatever we have, little or a lot, and multiply it to do more than we can imagine.
Prayer: God, everything I have is yours. Help me to hear your voice and follow your leading as I give what you have entrusted to me. Help me to invest in what will outlast me, to know what things will change lives, accomplish your mission in this world, provide for those in need, and bring honor to you. In Jesus' name, Amen.