Advancing the Kingdom: We are Unstoppable 12

How do we measure our spending on hobbies, pets, and personal pleasures compared to what we give to God? The same question applies to our time and energy. Throughout history, the church has been sustained not by the wealthy elite, but by ordinary people giving their best to the Lord. John Wesley once challenged believers: “Gain all you can, save all you can, give all you can—not gain all you can and then sit on the can.”

God provided Israel with gold and silver from the Egyptians to use for His worship, but in disobedience, they fashioned a golden calf instead. This reminds us that the real issue is not possessions themselves, but whether those possessions control us. God breaks the yoke of greed by calling us to generosity. He does not demand guilt-ridden giving but invites us to cheerful, faithful generosity.

In Acts 4, the early believers shared everything, ensuring no one lacked what they needed. Their giving flowed out of first giving themselves to the Lord. Likewise, our obedience in giving is ultimately a test of faith.

Key Takeaways:
 1. Have gratitude – everything you have is a gift from God.
 2. Examine your heart – listen to what God is prompting you to do.
 3. Think beyond money – give your time, encouragement, and hospitality.
 4. Trust God’s promises – your gift may be the seed that makes an eternal difference.