Day Twelve. Principle: Follow Through
Scripture:
So we urged Titus, since he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us—see that you also excel in this grace of giving. 2 Corinthians 8:6-7
Thoughts:
Desiring to give is an act of grace in the heart of an individual. Keeping a commitment to give is simply the completion of an act of grace in our hearts.
Note Paul's words—excel in the grace of giving; raise the bar in giving. That's what we are talking about—going higher in our giving; setting a higher standard in our personal giving and following through on our giving.
That's why it is important to count the cost before we commit to give. Over the next three years we will have the opportunity to follow through on our commitment. We must consider very carefully our commitment to the Realizing the Vision campaign. Is our commitment a work of God's grace in our hearts? If it is, that grace will carry the intention into action and completion.
Reflection:
In any organization, excellence is measured to a great degree on the ability to follow through on commitments. Do I excel in giving?
Prayer:
Faithful God, by Your grace raise the level of my giving. I desire to excel in giving. Guard me from making a commitment out of the flesh. Lead me to make a commitment that pleases You and then enable me to follow through on my commitment.
