Tag: leaders model
Connecting with generosity!
Scripture reading for April 22nd: 1st Chronicles 28-29
“Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all you that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2nd Corinthians 9:7-8
Preachers are sometimes pushy or manipulative in asking the people to give. There are so many needs and money is often a limiting factor in the work of the church, at least in our minds. The love of money keeps many from giving and holds back God’s blessing in the people as well. This area is a touchy area for many because of the various abuses and the strongholds of idolatry to money and materialism in this land.
King David set forth his personal giving to fund the vision of building the temple of the Lord. A good leader will always lead the way for those he is calling to help. David gave of his personal treasure 188 tons of gold, 375 tons of silver, 675 tons of bronze and 3,750 tons of iron. This was a fortune by today’s values! From this position of personal dedication, he challenged his other leaders to willingly too.
The leaders caught the spirit of generosity that King David had modeled. They also contributed “willingly and wholeheartedly” to the Lord. (1st Chronicles 29:6-9) David rejoiced with a psalm of praise to the Lord! He attributed everything that he had to God’s grace! (1st Chronicles 29:11-12) We can boast about nothing! He alone is to be praised!
David prayed for the people: “And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you. O, Lord, God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, keep this desire in the hearts of your people forever and keep their hearts loyal to you.” (1st Chronicles 29:17-18) That is my prayer for each of us today! May you have a willing heart to give! If you are a leader, may you set an example of extravagant giving. May your heart remain loyal to the Lord and open to be generous forever!