Monday, April 29, 2013

Day 119: 1 Chronicles 26, 27, 28 and 29

We have given you only what comes from your hand (1 Chronicles 29:14b).

Listen to David’s heart as he splendors in God’s blessing: Who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? (29:14a).

Awhile back I read that an eastern European government had regulated the amount its citizens could give to their churches. In fact charitable contributions of all kinds were being limited to two percent out of concern that financial support for terrorist organizations is often disguised as gifts to charities. The writer of the article reported that Christians in those countries are looking for loopholes so they can give more.

Contrast that with wealthier countries where many people find loopholes to give as little as possible, or feel no desire to give at all. Why is it the more we have the tighter our grip? Not so with David and the people of Israel. They were truly grateful for all that God had done for them, and they gave with joyful hearts. God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Blessings are given that we might share them with others. Abundance is meant to be passed along. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows (James 1:17). Knowing where our gifts come from can transform us into cheerful givers with generous hearts.

TODAY’S MEDITATION
Ask God how you can be a cheerful giver. And think about how you could give a little extra this week.

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