Introductory Thoughts
Every person cannot give the same amount, but every person can give. According to our passage, “Every man shall give as he is able.” Because some people might use this as an excuse not to give, the Lord further states that giving should be “according to the blessing of the LORD thy God which he hath given thee.” The New Testament repeats this same principle in 1 Corinthians 16:2. Every man is to give “as God hath prospered him.” The book of Acts gives a practical example. In Acts 11:29, the disciples sent relief to their brethren and every man did so “according to his ability.” Each believer should give to the Lord corresponding to how the Lord has prospered him.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): If you earn ten pennies, you set aside one penny for the Lord. If a friend earns twenty pennies, he owes the Lord two pennies. Read 2 Corinthians 8:12. In God's eyes you both gave equally. You both gave from what the Lord allowed you to earn.
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(For everyone): Has God prospered you? What is your ability to give? Could you give more than you are currently giving? Do you think it would please the Lord for you to increase your giving?
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Do you give to the work of the Lord? If not, can you honestly say that God has not given you the ability to give? Is it possible that your priorities could be off balance?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to enable you to give more.
- Ask God to show you if He is pleased with how you are giving.
Song
LIVING FOR JESUS
