October 19, 2016: SOAP #2512:  Job 5; Psalm 108; Acts 10-11

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 11:28 One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.) 29 The disciples, each according to his ability, decided to provide help for the brothers living in Judea. 30 This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.

Observation:   Giving is a MAJOR part of a Christian’s life.

Application:    Sometimes God speaks to us to give a specific possession or amount of money.  We give in obedience to the One we call Lord.   Sometimes God has us give sacrificially.  We give more than our budget will allow.   We give in faith that God will make up the shortage.     Sometimes God shows us a need and we respond as the disciples did in verse 29 above.  We give according to our ability.  We recognize that we only have what God has given us and it all really belongs to Him.  So we exercise our authority over our finances and give as we are able.  We make a choice to manage our/His possessions in a way that will bring Him the most joy.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, I know my Heavenly Father is a giver and it brings Him joy when I am a giver.  Teach me to give, show me how and what to give.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!