GRACE OF GIVING- III

Last month we meditated about the purpose of our creation and recreation, “BY GRACE THROUGH FAITH FOR WORKS”. We reached the last session of this series, where we are going to study about Grace of giving in the New Testament. If you missed any article, here is the link:

  

Purpose of our Creation and Recreation 

The Purpose of Good Deeds

Grace of Giving 

In the New Testament, the law is replaced by GRACE. God now mentions about Grace of giving ‘voluntarily’ rather than Tithing as a ‘fixed’ rule.

One biggest and strongest message about giving is mentioned in 2 Corinthians 8, 9 where we study how Macedonians were cheerful givers even when they were in a great trial of affliction. But let us just walk towards the road, less trodden.

People often mention about Macedonians and Corinthians when they talk about charity but there is another story in the Bible which really needs our attention.

Small prayer: “Holy Spirit, Fill us with your Word of Wisdom and Knowledge.”

In Acts 9:36, we read about Tabitha (Dorcas), A Believer.

The Bible mentions her like:

“This woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did” -KJV.

“She was always doing kind things for others and helping the poor.” –NLT.

“She spent all her time doing good and helping the poor.” –GNB.

Further as we read, all widows crowded round Peter, crying and showing him all the shirts and coats that Dorcas had made while she was alive.(Acts 9:39)

This passage indicates that the widows were the recipients of Dorcas’ charity.

Her reputation was made from something as simple as sewing clothing for the poor but then she was called a disciple! It was out of gratitude for Jesus that she dedicated her one gift to Jesus. Can we do that?

Thoughts to ponder:

• ·         What are you good at?

• ·         What do you enjoy doing?

• ·         What energizes you?

• ·          What lights your fire?

• ·         What are you passionate about?

• ·         Are you channeling that gifting or passion for Jesus?

• ·         What are you doing for Jesus?

It can be as simple as sewing or baking, fixing or driving. 

What do you have in your hands this morning? 

If God could use Moses with something as simple as a staff and Tabitha with something as basic as a needle, what might he use on your hands?

1 Peter 4:10, “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”

Do take time and think about it!

If God wants you to be a cheerful giver, then

1) Give a portion of your money.

2) Give a portion of your time.

3) Give a portion of your energy.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit may help you to use all that you have for the Glory of the Lord.

Amen.