Giving
By, Toni Smothers
Scripture Reading for the day: Malachi 3:9-12
Scripture Quote: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Mat 6:19-21(NIV)
The bible says that we are under God's displeasure if we neglect His church by being stingy with our time and/or finances. Has God been stingy with His blessings and provision to you? What you give to God will not lessen your security. When you give as you should, see if God doesn't increase His provision to you. His rewards may not be in cash directly, but new opportunities will be presented to you. In God's economy, when one door closes, another becomes available. Your efforts will bear fruit as you learn to be a joyful giver.
A heart designed for God and eternity is degraded when focused on material possessions. When we look for the needy, rather than looking away from obvious poverty, the compassion meant to guide the Christian's heart will strengthen. Jesus said that when we do good to the poor, it is the same as doing good to Him.
Today’s meditation: Give back generously from God's provision.
Memory Verse: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” Malachi 3:10 (NIV)