Increase your giving

"...He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever" 2 Corinthians 9:9

No, I am not writing today to tell you how much money you should be putting in the collection plate on Sundays. I want to go deeper into what God tells us about giving. Earlier, in verse 7 it says "for God loves a cheerful giver".

I contend that while many stewardship programs use this passage in 2nd Corinthians to encourage members to give generously so that the church may continue doing the work of the Lord, that the message is much deeper then just money. God wants us to share everything we have because all that we have comes from Him. Most importantly includes sharing our faith with others. Show others Jesus through both our word and action. For I am certain that if I gave 50% of my income to the church each Sunday but never shared my faith with another person, never showed compassion to someone less fortunate, never cared for someone who was having rough times or who was sick that God would not be pleased.

There is discrepancies between certain denominations as to the works that are spoken of throughout the Bible. We are not saved by these works but rather these works come out of being saved by grace alone. If we have faith that Jesus Christ died for our sins to allow us to live in eternity with Him and the Father, then we naturally want to share that wonderful gift with others. The way we share is in love. And what better way to love someone as Christ loves us then by being compassionate, helping the less fortunate, giving of our time and talents, and yes, giving of our worldly possessions.

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

With such a wonderful gift, should not we be sharing with as many others as possible. Do not be selfish and keep this gift to yourself, go out and share this good news with the world.

God Bless you on this last Tuesday of June.