From the Elder's Pen ABUNDANCE OF WANT? Past/Future Articles

A few years back a young man, studying to be a preacher, and his wife visited our home.  Realizing their “store house” was probably sparse, we proceeded out of our “store house” to share with them.  As the young man watched my wife fill a grocery bag he stated, “You give out of your abundance.”  It took a couple of days for the interpretation of his words to register;  however when they did, I pondered them many times.

 
How many of us only give out of our abundance?  Does anyone give out of their need?  The “sweet psalmist of Israel” said he would offer his God nothing that cost him nothing. (II Sam. 24:24)  Let us ask ourselves the question, “Do we serve God out of the first fruits of life or left overs?”  When need arises and we have the opportunity to do more in the service of the Master, do we with a willing heart and love abounding do more, or do we go to our “store houses” and turn away sorrowful (Matt. 19:22) because we might need what is there.  Are we willing to forego an outing or some pleasure for self that we might double our effort to promote the cause of Christ?

The next time we purpose in our hearts what part of God’s blessings and talents we want to return to Him, stop and think of this, “Will it cost me, am I giving sacrificially or do I give out of my abundance?”  Let us not be like the old King and be “weighed in the balance and found wanting.”  (Daniel 5:27).

Walter M. Bishop, Elder