Giving

Jul

2023

Fish and Loaves

In John 6:9, we encounter a familiar story of Jesus feeding the multitude with just a few loaves of bread and fish.

“Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?”

This event showcases not only the miraculous power of Jesus but also his compassion and provision for those in need.

It reminds us that even when faced with insurmountable challenges and limited resources, Jesus is more than capable of meeting our needs and exceeding our expectations.

The boy in this story, who offered his small lunch of five loaves and two fish, serves as a powerful example of faith and generosity.

Despite the seemingly insignificant nature of his offering, he willingly presented it to Jesus, trusting that he could do something remarkable with it.

This teaches us the importance of offering what we have, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, and allowing Jesus to multiply it for his purposes.

This story also reminds us that Jesus is not limited by our circumstances or resources. He has the power to take what we offer, bless it, and use it to impact the lives of others.

Just as Jesus fed the multitude with the boy’s humble offering, he can use our acts of faith and generosity to bring about miraculous outcomes that glorify him and bless others.

Jul

2023

Have you ever heard the phrase, “Money is the root of all evil”?

It’s a common saying that often gets misquoted. In reality, the Bible tells us something slightly different. In his letter to Timothy, the apostle Paul writes,

“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” (1 Timothy 6:10)

Notice that it’s not money itself that is the root of evil, but rather the love of money. This distinction is important to understand.

Money, in and of itself, is a neutral tool that can be used for good or for harm. It’s our attitude and relationship toward money that can lead to destructive outcomes.

When we become consumed by the love of money, it can distort our priorities and values.

We may become driven by greed, envy, and selfishness, which can lead to all sorts of harmful behaviors and attitudes.

Paul’s warning serves as a reminder for us to examine our hearts and attitudes toward money. Instead of letting it control us, we are called to be good stewards of the resources we have been given.

It’s about recognizing that our ultimate security and satisfaction come from God, not from material possessions.

Cultivating a heart of generosity, contentment, and wise financial management, we can ensure that money serves as a means to bless others and advance God’s kingdom, rather than a source of corruption and evil.

Jun

2023

Gifted by Grace

We all long for a sense of meaning and significance, and in Ephesians 4:7, the apostle Paul reminds us that each one of us has been given grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift.

“But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.”

This verse speaks to the unique gifts and abilities that God has bestowed upon each believer.

Think of it this way: just as a master craftsman equips their apprentices with specific tools and skills for their trade, God has equipped us with unique gifts for the work of His kingdom.

These gifts are not earned or acquired through our own efforts, but they are given to us by the grace of Christ. They are meant to be used for His glory and the benefit of others.

Discovering and applying our God-given gifts is an exciting journey. It involves seeking God’s guidance, exploring our passions and abilities, and being open to opportunities to serve.

As we embrace and develop our gifts, we not only fulfill our own purpose but also contribute to the overall health and growth of the body of Christ.

Reflect on the gifts God has given you. Consider your passions, talents, and abilities, and ask God to reveal how He wants to use them for His purposes.

Avoid comparing yourself to others or diminish the significance of your own gifts’ instead, embrace them with gratitude and a willingness to serve.

Remember that your unique contribution is essential to the functioning of the body of Christ. As you use your gifts, you will experience the joy and fulfillment that come from living out your God-given purpose.

Jun

2023

A Cheerful Giver

There is something incredibly fulfilling about being able to share what we have with others. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, encourages us to embrace the joy of giving. He writes:

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7)

Giving is not about fulfilling an obligation or meeting a requirement. Instead, it’s an opportunity to express our gratitude and love for God and others.

Our giving should come from a place of genuine desire, a reflection of our gratitude for all that God has done for us.

When we give with joy, it transforms not only the lives of those receiving but also our own hearts. It aligns us with the generous nature of our Heavenly Father, who has lavished His blessings upon us.

Embrace the joy of giving, not only in your material possessions but also in your time, talents, and acts of kindness. In doing so, you participate in God’s redemptive work and experience the abundant life He has called you to.

Reflect on your giving and examine your heart. Are you giving with reluctance or compulsion, or cheerfully and generously?

Remember that your giving is an expression of your love for God and others.

Find joy in being a blessing to those around you, knowing that your cheerful giving brings glory to God and makes a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Giving

Fish and Loaves

For the Love of Money

Have you ever heard the phrase, “Money is the root of all evil”?

Gifted by Grace

A Cheerful Giver

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