This title might sound familiar because it is! A couple of weeks ago I introduced a sermon on giving that was never preached because I didn’t feel adequately prepared. Whenever “giving” is mentioned, people almost always think about money. When the topic turns to finances, it can get really personal, really quickly.
Even though money is a touchy subject, it is a topic that Jesus spoke quite often about. He stressed that God is to be our focus. Our reliance is to be based on His ability and not of our own. Many times, money becomes our earthly god and we will cling to it and ultimately exchange the eternal God for the temporary god. Money is neither good nor bad. It has no power of its own, it is a slave to whoever controls it.
We need to realize God will not hold the money accountable. The one who controls the money is responsible. Money can have a direct connection to our salvation. Read the story of the rich, young ruler in Matthew 19:16-24. He approached Jesus, earnestly seeking to inherit eternal life. The young man, confident in his adherence to the commandments, asked what more he needed to do. Jesus, with profound insight, challenged him to sell all he owned, give the proceeds to the poor, and follow Him. This command struck at the very heart of the ruler’s attachment, revealing where his true reliance lay—in his wealth. Unable to part with his possessions, the young ruler walked away sorrowful, illustrating the danger of allowing material wealth to overshadow spiritual devotion and obedience to God.
I am confident many people are very good people, who strive to let God’s Word direct their steps and strive to be completely compliant in all things, yet have the same results when it comes to giving God their all.
The reason for this week’s message is not to browbeat or belittle but rather encourage us to faithfully give to God in all things and avoid those things that may cost us our salvation.
Remember “God loves a cheerful giver” is found in 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
The principle of sowing and reaping is a profound spiritual truth found throughout Scripture. Galatians 6:7-8 reminds us, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” This principle applies not only to our actions but also to our attitudes, priorities, and how we use the resources entrusted to us by God.
God can’t be mock but rather trusted. May we desire to love Him more and give to Him all we have in our control. My prayer is that we will be cheerful givers as we offer our time and attention when we assemble together this Sunday.
In Christ.
Steve
NOBLE CHURCH OF CHRIST