Day Fourteen. Principle: Equality
Scripture:
Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will be equality, as it is written: "He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little." 2 Corinthians 8:13-15
Thoughts:
Our giving isn't intended to encourage luxury or laziness on the part of those who receive a gift. In fact, this happened in the New Testament. Some took advantage of the New Testament concept of koinonia, the idea that all things are held in common. It's the philosophy that my stuff isn't my own. If you have a need, it's yours. But some took advantage of this philosophy so much so that Paul had to write, "If a person doesn't work, neither should he eat." Again, the principle of equality applies to our giving: equal sacrifice, not equal gifts.
On this last day, ask God to begin helping you set goals for giving. Here is a four-step process to set goals for giving:
- Spend time with God. Seek His will and direction. Pray. Spend time in the Bible seeking guidance.
- Record your impressions. Write down the direction you are receiving from God and his Word.
- Make the goal measurable. Don't say, "I'm going to give more." How much more? When are you going to give? Weekly? Monthly? Bimonthly? What will you give? An amount? A percentage?
- Take action. Trust God. Follow through. Keep your commitment.
Reflection:
How successful do I want to be in the area of stewardship and giving? What things have challenged and inspired me in these devotional studies?
Prayer:
Gracious and generous God, what do You want to do through me to realize Your vision for Village?
