He is There
Today's Scripture
"You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’" - Acts 20:35 NLT
Thoughts for Today
So often our focus is on receiving—money, things, praise, encouragement, help of all kinds. But what about giving? Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive.
One of the first material kinds of giving that comes to mind is tithing and giving to God. How can I do that? you may ask. I can't even pay my bills. How can I possibly tithe? How can I give money away? Remember, God's ways are not our ways. When we obey him and put him first, he will bless us in so many ways. Listen to what he says . . .
Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! Your crops will be abundant, for I will guard them from insects and disease. Your grapes will not fall from the vine before they are ripe,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. - Malachi 3:10-11 NLT
God says to try it! Instead of paying all the bills and seeing if there is enough left over for the tithe, pay your tithe first. "Try it! Put me to the test! Your crops will be abundant."
Consider this …
There are many ways to give. Give to God by serving him. Give him your time and your talents.
Give to others. Meet a material need. Praise for a job well done. Pray for them. Encourage them. Focus on what you can do for others instead of what they can do for you. Give, expecting nothing in return. Let the love of Jesus flow through you to make a difference in the lives of others. "It is more blessed to give than to receive."
Prayer
Father, help me learn to be more of a giver and less of a taker. I commit to tithing and to giving gifts beyond that. Not only material gifts but gifts of sharing myself. I need your help. Please give me strength, courage, and wisdom. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …
Committed Couples: God's Plan for Marriage & the Family by Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee. Whether in a private or group setting, couples will be encouraged spiritually and romantically as they research biblical principles that affirm their vows. This book can help every married couple grow spiritually and emotionally in their relationship. It is also a great help for engaged-to-be-married couples.
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