SCRIPTURE: 2Corinthians (NIV) 8:3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, 4 they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. 5 And they went beyond our expectations; having given themselves first of all to the Lord, they gave themselves by the will of God also to us.
OBSERVATION: The Corinthians believers were not just making a donation. They gave according to their ability. They gave beyond their ability. They gave willingly. They considered it a privilege to give. They exceeded Paul’s expectations. The Corinthians believers were givers. Where did such sacrificial giving begin? It began by giving “themselves first of all to the Lord.”
APPLICATION: Sharon and I have given ourselves to the Lord, and since we claim Jesus as our Lord, all that we have belongs to Him. So, giving is not a matter of making a donation; it is much more. Giving is willing and joyfully disbursing His money as He directs.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, May you have joy in increasing our finances because you have joy in seeing how we manage what you have already given. Amen
Pastor Leon
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I want to take this opportunity to express my thanks and appreciation for everyone who has participated in the SOAP ministry by giving. When I started writing SOAPs I never expected such growth and fruitfulness. When Pastor Andrew told me that he had a vision to help them spread across Africa, I told him that he had a bigger vision than I did. But now I see that his vision was from the Lord. It has been a blessing to me to see much of the financial support for the SOAP ministry come from Africa. It is also a special blessing for God to allow many non-Africans to be a part of He is doing in Africa, and especially Muslim-Africa. There is a powerful prayer ministry targeting Africa; God is a prayer-answering God! And God has, through His people, provided finances to keep the SOAP ministry moving ahead! May God’s blessings be easily recognized in each one who participates. 😊
SOAPs by Pastor Leon 