Ever since I was a sophomore in college I have been giving regular financial offerings to God. I praise Him for the older Christian Brother who took me aside and taught me this vital discipleship principle… over 4 decades ago now. I am confident that much of the heart for The Lord and His Church that I have developed through the years has been the result of investing my ‘treasure’ in God’s kingdom as a priority [Matthew 6:21]. I was convicted then that either my kingdom or His would be my primary focus. I decided it should be His [Matthew 6:33]. When I started taking my giving seriously, I had an income of $35/week. I started faithfully giving $5 each Lord’s Day as an expression of worship. Something good began to happen in my head and heart that I trace back to that Spirit-led decision/commitment.
It grieves me that most Christians do not give to God first. It is more predictable today that a person subtracts their bills from their income to see how much is left over; then determines what can be given to the Lord’s work out of the overflow, without going into debt. So rather than a ‘first fruits’ offering, it becomes a ‘leftover’ offering. But, taking our offering off the top, so to speak, is evidence that we acknowledge God’s authority over us. It is an act of gratitude to God for his goodness and it’s trusting Him to provide the best for us. Bill Hybels wrote that most of us look at giving like paying another bill; but instead we should look at it as seed we sow.
Pray with me… Father, truly everything we have belongs to you. We came into this world naked and dependent, empty-handed, and that is exactly how we will exit. Forgive us when the bright lights, the fast moving crowds, or the good times lure us into a preoccupation with money and the material world. We want to love what You love and sacrifice what we have for the only kingdom that ultimately matters. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Ken
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