"You lead us by still waters into Your mercy and nothing can keep us apart. So remember Your people; remember Your children; remember Your promise, oh God!...Your grace is enough for me!" This song ("Your Grace is Enough"), by Chris Tomlin, expresses the truth found in 2 Corinthians 12:9: "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.'" (NIV) No matter where we are, even in our weakest moments, God is there and can shine through us!
The central Scripture for tonight comes from Proverbs 31:8-9: "'Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly, defend the rights of the poor and needy.'" (NIV) Even when we do not have material things to give, we can give our voice and help others in need through encouragement, defense, and counsel.
Maxwell notes the following. "Giving is the highest level of living." "In life, it's not what you have that makes a difference. It's what you do with what you have." It's not about how much stuff you have, but how you use it to bless others and how you use it for God's glory. After all, anything good we have came from Him, for, "Every good and perfect gift is from above." (James 1:17a, NIV) Furthermore, "'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" (Acts 20:35b, NIV)
We should give what we can because Jesus gave all He had, down to His very life. We can never out-give God, but He does call us to give. We need to share the blessings He has bestowed upon us. Not only that, but we should do so with a glad heart and not begrudgingly, "for God loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:7b, NIV)
The reflection question tonight asks: "What is your attitude toward giving?" I used to dislike giving. However, God has changed my attitude on the matter. I now have an attitude that reflects Acts 20:35. If you trouble giving with a cheerful heart, look to Him for help. He will guide you!
God bless you!
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