Monday Blessing

Patricia R.
on 3/27/11 6:22 pm - Perry, MI

 

March 28

God’s Financial Best

Malachi 3:7-18

The multitude of Bible verses that speak about money prove that God is very interested in our personal finances. Because this is such an essential element of our lives, He uses money to train us in stewardship, teach us self-control, and test our obedience to Him.

Perhaps the greatest area of the Lord’s testing involves our willingness to give. Old Testament law commanded financial contributions for upkeep of the temple and support of the Levitesserving there. And the New Testament tells believers to regularly set apart a portion of their income for kingdom work (1 Cor. 16:2).

However, fears and excuses sometimes keep us from faithfully carrying out this God-given responsibility. After all, giving away the money we need to pay our bills seems foolish. But the Lord promises overflowing blessings to those who obey Him in this matter. In fact, He invites us to test Him in this to see if He will prove faithful (Mal. 3:10).

By neglecting our responsibility to give to the Lord, we commit four sins. We express unbelief in His integrity and power, ingratitude for all He’s given us, and rebellion against His commands. And since the first part of our income belongs to Him, withholding it amounts to robbing God.

Don’t think that your financial situation will somehow prove too much for God and cause Him to break His promise. The trustworthiness of His Word depends on His character and omnipotence and is unaffected by your monetary challenges. Trust Him and give generously.

Seek always to do some good, somewhere. Every man has to seek in his own way to realize his true worth. You must give some time to your fellow man. For remember, you don't live in a world all your own. Your brothers are here too.
Albert Schweitzer
96179

Patricia R.
on 3/27/11 6:32 pm - Perry, MI
I recently got some help with budgeting my money from friends at church.  They helped me view my money differently.  Instead of seeing it as "My money, I earned it."  They said it is "God's money that He is letting me use."  When I view it that way, I begin to see that I can't afford NOT to give to the work of the Lord.  Now, to give wisely.  I believe most of my giving should be to my church.  I also have dear friends who have been on the mission field for almost 28 years.  My daughter spent a summer with them in Tunisia serving as a nanny to their two preschoolers when she was 16.  That gave her a burden for missions.  I also have some young ladies at my church that are seeking to serve Him.  One has been serving with Campus Crusade for Christ, which my daughter was involved with in college.  The other graduates from Bible college this May, and is seeking the Lord's will concerning her future.  I need to pray for wisdom in these matters.

Hugs,
Trish
Seek always to do some good, somewhere. Every man has to seek in his own way to realize his true worth. You must give some time to your fellow man. For remember, you don't live in a world all your own. Your brothers are here too.
Albert Schweitzer
96179

Hislady
on 3/28/11 7:21 am - Vancouver, WA
That's on thing I insist on in my budget, the first check I write monthly goes to the church. Once in awhile DH says maybe we should cut back and put it toward a bill and I just have to say no. I know that as long as I return God's money back to His works, He is faithful to take care of all the bills. I just won't compromise on that issue. Of course if He'd like to send the Publishers Clearinghouse folks my way that would be OK too.
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