Time, Talent, Treasure, Testimony
We used to sing an old song before the offering plate was passed around at church... "Give and it will come back to you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over...". It was a catchy tune but it's also scripture. There are many times throughout God's word where we're instructed to give - not only for God - but for ourselves. It's the law of the harvest. This law states that in life, we will reap what we sow; we will reap more than what we sow. Good choices, like seeds, ultimately bring forth good fruit as a reward. Giving doesn't only include our tithe and offering - but it also includes giving our all to God. That comes in the form of our time, our talent, and our testimony.
Bible Scripture: Proverbs 18:16 NIV - A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.
Faith Application: Commit to praying every day this week and fasting one day a week. Pray when you want. Remember, you may not pray an hour a day but don't let an hour go by without communicating with God. On your fast day, fast whatever you feel, but let it be a sacrifice; let it be from the heart. Fast something that has become an idol in your life and takes up your time and your energy in place of moments with God. This week, as you're fasting, ask God to help you identify areas you can give more, whether it be your time, your talent, your treasure, or your testimony.
Prayer Focus: This week, pray that God blesses the church with more ability to bless others. Fill the voids and strengthen our weaknesses. If there is an area of ministry where we can grow, bring in the right people with the right talents, treasures and testimonies. We pray that those willing to help disciple the lost through their ministries will be able to manage their time between the responsibilities of the home and the kingdom. Finally, we pray that the church and every home within the church are financially blessed. We pray that each family reaps the harvest of their fruitful and abundant gifts to the church.
Family Activity: Giving isn't as complex as it has been made out to be. It's not about how much or a certain percentage. Yes, there are scriptures in the bible that give very clear direction concerning tithe and offering, but all God really wants is your all. Whatever you have, give it back to God and watch how God works in your life. Read this blog post to see how giving has affected some of our very own church members. Also, read and discuss "The Widows Offering". Finally, read this biblical perspective on generosity.