October 24, 2016: SOAP #2517:  Job 15; Acts 19-20

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 20:34 You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. 35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Observation:  As Paul was speaking to the leaders of the church of Ephesus, he reminds them of how hard he worked when he visited them earlier.  Later he would write to this same church: Ephesians 4:28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.

Application:   One of the great blessings of work is being able to give, being able to “help the weak,” or “share with those in need.”  What I earn from working is in my power to use as I decide.  When I tithe (give the Lord His 10%) I am confessing that He gave me the strength and wisdom to accomplish the work.  I am acknowledging that He is my partner in work.  For me, tithing is not giving; it is just returning to the Lord what belongs to Him.  My giving comes from my 90%.

To man, generosity is valued by the amount given; to God generosity is valued by the amount remaining.  To man, it is the size of the gift, to God, the size of the sacrifice.

Prayer:    Heavenly Father, I am blest to be able to give.  May those in need be blest in my generosity.  Mostly, may you be blest in my stewardship of the finances you bring my way.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!