Read 1 Chronicles 29:1-9
"Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the LORD: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy" (v. 9).
It happened during the offertory. Many years ago during a revival meeting, as the offering was being received, suddenly a man started shouting and even ran the aisle! It was, of course, completely unexpected and rather startling. Afterwards, he testified that the Lord had prompted him to put twenty dollars into the offering. It was all that he had, and, for a few moments, he struggled with this. Then he resolved to obey the divine directive. As the offering plate was passed, he put the twenty dollars in, and God immediately poured out a joyous blessing on this obedient brother.
Obviously, not everyone who gives to God always receives such an instantaneous blessing, but what a reminder that God desires those who give anything to Him to do so gladly, not grudgingly. God is always concerned not just with what we do but also with why we do what we do. The spirit in which it is done, whether it be worshipping, witnessing, or stewardship is important. We have the stark contrast presented in the New Testament between those who made a spectacle of their sizable contributions and the widow who quietly gave all that she had. The first principle of stewardship is simply that it all belongs to God and, inasmuch as He pours out blessings upon us, we give not as drudgery but as a delight. (MRW)
Do you give with a scowl or with a smile?
This devotional was taken from Monday, September 30, 2013, of the Opening the Word, September, October, November 2013. Order your copy!