And So, I Continue . . . . . .
That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving and tell of all thy wondrous works. Psalms 26:7 KJV
1 Timothy 6:17-19 ~ Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; 18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. KJV
In chapter 6 and in particular these verses, Paul is writing to Timothy who was given charge of the Church of Ephesus. He encourages him to fight the good fight, not to get distracted, and keep the faith. He cautioned him to avoid sin at all costs, and follow after things that are good, to be constant in the fight of faith. In addition, he was to charge rich men not to be so caught up with the riches, and to encourage them to keep their trust in God not the "things" they have amassed in their wealth. Because of God's blessings on them, they were to also bless others and show benevolence to those less fortunate.
We are not rich by the world's standings, but I can tell you that God has blessed us richly. Sometimes I just can't believe how our lives are touched by so many we know from afar and up close and personal. It is a great sacrifice for some to give, these are the ones God looks on in favour. The widow's mite we wrote of early this month is the prime example. She gave from her substance, her all. Sometimes the rich give of their wealth, no sacrifice.
We all think how "easy" for the wealthy to give from their wealth. I venture to say that is not the case always, or Paul would not have written this letter - he wants them to know it is a responsibility appointed unto them by God to give. And when they give over and above that wealth, God will return over and over. But not all of the rich are willing to do that; to sacrifice in giving, but oh the blessings when they do. Not only do they receive more and more but their beneficiaries are blessed as well. There are also those who give with "strings attached." The rich who give but want to hold the purse strings of the church. We see that a lot, don't we? Men full of themselves and what THEY can do with the money given by others. Paul wants Timothy to teach the rich "how to give"; to give and then leave it alone so that God can do the work on others hearts.
Christians we are the extended arm of our Lord. What we do here on earth should always and ever honor our Lord God and His many blessings in our lives. We are to testify of His goodness to us by giving our all, not just from our substance, but from our hearts a service pleasing unto God. May your life be blessed, and God be your great guide in all things. May we be blessed with souls saved as a result of what we sacrifice to others for Him.
Paul told Timothy, above all things, preach the truth of the Gospel to see men surrendered to a loving and caring God, whether they be rich or poor. That is our commission. Please be blessed today in all that you do, may God receive honor and glory! Look for someone in need, give and give again. God will take care of you and them.
How can you give for God today? Make it a point to reach out to someone NOW. You already have someone in mind as you read this. That's the Holy Spirit bringing them to your mind. Obey Him, and do what God has allowed you to do! Giving is the best ever!
December we will be writing about "The Light of the World" - I pray you will continue to get blessings as we study the Word.
If you don't know Him, come to Him today!
Tom & Linda Milam
Lord, help us to be worthy of your sacrifice, may we be the ultimate and abundant givers, giving from the heart with joy and pray that others might see Jesus in us. Save the lost, encourage the saints please. And help us to be wise, studied up, aware, and faithful to You, giving YOU all of our best with an open loving heart for the ministry and people. Help us Lord, to be wise in our homelife and all that is going on with that. Please bless our real estate agent, Lisa. Give her great wisdom and discernment on what to do. Amen.
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