Bible Study - Freedom - Personal Freedom - 2 Peter 2 and Philippians 3 - July 3, 2011

Bible Study – Freedom – Personal Rights – July 3, 2011
This is lesson one (1) in our new series entitled “Freedom: Making It Personal.”
Our scripture is 2 Peter 2:10b-19; Philippians 3:17-21.

This will be a five (5) week study.

With freedom comes responsibility. Most young people are eager to get their drivers license. That day comes. They have the freedom to drive a vehicle. Now it is up to them to obey the laws in order to be able to keep them. If they do not, they risk having them taken away or if they are involved in a bad situation such as driving under the influence and someone is killed, they can end up serving time and losing their freedom.

Young people long to be free from the control of their parent or parents. Many experience their first freedom when they go off to college or military. When they turn 21 years old, they have the freedom to drink alcohol, if they choose. Again, with freedom comes responsibility.

As we gain freedom, we also are accountable to those who enforce the law or rules – parents, teachers, law enforcement, etc. but we are also accountable to GOD. GOD did not make us robots but gave us the right to choose. HE made us free to choose. HE placed HIS handiwork all around us to entice us to seek HIM. The very body in which we live was crafted by HIM and is a marvelous work of art and engineering.

Often, we take our existence for granted. But what was our origin? We came from our mother, who came from her mother, who came from her mother. Keep going back to an origin. Life began for our ancestral line. Where did we come from? The answer is GOD.

GOD, through the sinless life, death and resurrection of HIS ONLY SON JESUS, provides the greatest freedom for all who will accept HIM as their SAVIOR. John 8:36 - 36 Therefore if the Son sets you free, you really will be free.

What does CHRIST set those who accept HIM as their SAVIOR free from? They are set free from sin and its consequences, which is death. But even with the freedom CHRIST gives comes responsibility and accountability to live obediently.

Our lesson today is about personal freedom. The personal freedom we have today did not come easy. The personal freedom we have in America has cost many lives and continues to cost lives – military, police, border control, undercover personnel and the list goes on. The freedom from sin and death a Christian has cost CHRIST HIS life.

We will celebrate our personal freedom on the 4th of July – speech, to
worship, to bear arms, etc. But our freedom is being compromised. Unless a change is made, America is heading toward a socialist style of government which does not work. Look at Greece and other countries. We must be vigilant and active to preserve the founding principles of our constitution. Just as government can be compromised, so can our Spiritual foundation.
The Apostle Peter was writing to the Christians of his day to warn them about false teachers who distort the true gospel. Even today Christians must beware of false teachers, preachers, evangelists and Bible teachers.

Let’s read 2 Peter 2:10b-14:

Bold, arrogant people! They do not tremble when they blaspheme the glorious ones; 11 however, angels, who are greater in might and power, do not bring a slanderous charge against them before the Lord.[6] 12 But these people, like irrational animals—creatures of instinct born to be caught and destroyed—speak blasphemies about things they don’t understand, and in their destruction they too will be destroyed, 13 suffering harm as the payment for unrighteousness. They consider it a pleasure to carouse in the daytime. They are blots and blemishes, delighting in their deceptions[7] as they feast with you, 14 having eyes full of adultery and always looking for sin, seducing unstable people, and with hearts trained in greed. Accursed children!

The Apostle Peter paints a word picture of these false teachers who pride themselves on having a following of people. They were likely very good speakers and those we call “charismatic.” They have a lot of energy and weave enough truth into their message that it seems like truth. Their motives are deceptive and usually for personal gain. They market the gospel because it provides them a good source of income and when they have followers it appeals to their egos. So they present a hyped up message.
Peter said it best when he wrote that they were “bold, arrogant people.” These false teachers attacked those who represented truth – true believers, angels or anything or anyone Holy to show their power over real truth. It was a form of defiance in the face of GOD to validate their authority. They taught a feel-good religious lifestyle to those coming out of a pagan background which promoted self-gratification. The intent was to lure these new converts into their evil web to deceive and enslave.

Even though these false teachers spoke against angels, the angels did not speak against them. GOD gives Christians a measuring stick to use to discern false teachers. JESUS tells us to look at their fruit. Do they produce good and lasting fruit?

Peter told his readers to look how these false teachers acted. They acted like a bunch of animals. They have a basic instinct such that they devour everyone they encounter. They destroy truth but they in turn will be destroyed and will be held accountable by GOD. They will leave a path of devastation like the path of a tornado or hurricane. Many of their followers who are in their path and sit under their teachings will be misled and potentially devastated. Can GOD intervene? Yes and HE can salvage those deceived if they will allow HIM to set their feet upon the solid rock of CHRIST. But usually those deceived turn against CHRIST never to continue their Spiritual growth in HIM. But CHRIST did not deceive them, it was a devious, self-centered, egotistical, self-serving, misguided and many more words person who was not led by the HOLY SPIRIT. It happens today and is so wrong.

These false teachers were so bold that they practiced their deception in daytime, out in the open and without restraint. Most people try to hide their deception but these people were blatant. They preyed upon the weak and those vulnerable to their feel-good message such as GOD wants me to have gold, diamond rings, multiple sex partners, drugs, alcohol and all the things that bring pleasure here and now.

These false teacher’s hearts were full of greed and lust for power, control and all that gave them satisfaction without regard for those they hurt in their quest to satisfy themselves. They taught others to do the same thing without conscience.

Those who take advantage of others have the mindset such that if they are so naïve, stupid or ignorant that they cannot discern what is happening to them, they deserve to be a victim. Folks, this is the world we live in today. Beware of false teachers both in the Spiritual world as well as the social and business worlds. They have the freedom to do their deeds of deception but we also have the freedom to reject them by knowing the truth as we study GOD’S Word and pray for discernment.

Let’s read 2 Peter 2:15-19:

15 By abandoning the straight path, they have gone astray and have followed the path of Balaam, the son of Bosor,[8] who loved the wages of unrighteousness, 16 but received a rebuke for his transgression: a speechless donkey spoke with a human voice and restrained the prophet’s madness. 17 These people are springs without water, mists driven by a whirlwind. The gloom of darkness has been reserved for them. 18 For uttering bombastic, empty words, they seduce, by fleshly desires and debauchery, people who have barely escaped[9] from those who live in error. 19 They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption, since people are enslaved to whatever defeats them.

Peter was saying these false teachers knew the truth but their lust for popularity, power, greed and self-gratification caused them to abandon the truth for error. Peter used the Old Testament account of Balaam to make his point. This is an interesting but puzzling story. You can find the account in
Numbers chapters 22-24.

Balaam was a non-Hebrew prophet/magician/soothsayer who would put a curse on people for a fee. He was a prophet for hire, “He loved the wages of unrighteousness.” His relationship with GOD, to me, was strange. He spoke to GOD and GOD spoke to him. The Israelites were on their journey to the Promised Land and they came into the land of Moab. The king of Moab was Balak. He was concerned that this large number of Israelites could defeat his army so he sent a delegation to get Balaam to put a curse on these incoming people.

Balaam said he would talk to GOD. He did and GOD said “NO” because these people were blessed. So Balaam declined their offer. King Balak sent another delegation with the message that the king would pay him well for his services. Balaam said he would not do it even if the king filled his palace with silver and gold. Oddly, GOD came to Balaam that night and told him that he could go but he had to do only what GOD told him to do.

The trip for Balaam was about 400 miles. Balaam saddled his donkey and off he goes. But GOD was very angry with him for going. So what is going on? GOD first said no, and then HE said yes? Was Balaam really listening to GOD or to the greed and lust for money that was in his heart? He was listening to the greed in his heart which blinded him from being fully obedient to the true GOD and rendered him useless for the purposes of GOD. You would think that Balaam would have a change in heart toward GOD after his encounter with HIM on the road but greed was his god.

We have to keep in mind that GOD knows our hearts and the intents hidden in our hearts. Did Balaam fool himself into thinking that GOD was giving him permission to go or was it his own self-serving permission? I do not know but one thing is for sure, GOD is not fickle.

When Balaam first asked GOD about the first delegation’s request, GOD said no. Often, we keep asking GOD for HIS approval after HE has said no. GOD used the donkey to stop Balaam. The donkey balked because the angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. Balaam beat the donkey. Balaam beat the donkey three (3) times. The donkey lay down and the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey and who spoke to Balaam. The LORD opened Balaam’s eyes and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with drawn sword. The angel of the LORD told him that HE came to oppose him because what he was doing was wrong. GOD told him that the donkey saved his life because if the donkey had not stopped HE would have killed him. Balaam still went to King Balak and spoke to GOD three (3) times. Each time Balaam sought permission to curse the Israelites, GOD blessed the Israelites.

How often has GOD protected us from those who want to see harm come to us or our family? Only GOD knows but HE has cast a canopy of love and protection over HIS children. Be obedient and remain under that canopy.
How often do we decide that GOD has given us permission to do what HE had previously told us not to do? I know, I have and it has gotten me into trouble. Often, GOD uses circumstances to keep us out of trouble like the donkey kept Balaam from getting killed. The bottom line, Balaam was greedy and his eyes were blinded by his desire for money. Balaam’s heart was corrupt. Balaam was eventually killed in a battle.

Peter’s readers knew the story of Balaam and he related the heart of Balaam to the hearts of the false teachers, their hearts were full of greed. These false teachers appear to be springs but they had no water.

JESUS told the woman at the well in John 4:13-14 - 13 Jesus said, “Everyone who drinks from this water will get thirsty again. 14 But whoever drinks from the water that I will give him will never get thirsty again—ever! In fact, the water I will give him will become a well[7]of water springing up within him for eternal life.” In John 7:37-38 again JESUS was speaking - 37 On the last and most important day of the festival, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone is thirsty, he should come to Me[6]and drink! 38 The one who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said,[7] will have streams of living water flow from deep within him.”

The false teachers were dry because the real truth was not in them. They were like mist that appeared like something of value but what they touted evaporated by the winds of reality. This mist was a deceptive fog to prevent those who sought truth to not be able to see that they did not represent the truth. There was no Spiritual substance to what these false teachers had to say. It was all smoke and mirrors. They were in Spiritual darkness, yet, they were trying to appear to teach light. Their destiny was darkness and hell.
These false teachers could speak many words but they were all empty. So they supplemented their empty words by appealing to the fleshly desires of those to whom they were trying to influence. Their audience was those poor souls who had escaped paganism and its slavery only to be enslaved by the corruption these false teachers were presenting. They promised them freedom but it was just another form of enslavement.

All Christians must beware of false teachers. Pray and know the scriptures. When you know the truth your Spiritual ears will stand on end when deviations from the truth are presented. When that happens, pay attention and do not sit under anyone who does not present the truth. Partial truths are lies. Pray for discernment.

Now we switch to the Apostle Paul.

Let’s read Philippians 3:17-21:
17 Join in imitating me, brothers, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us. 18 For I have often told you, and now say again with tears, that many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction; their god is their stomach; their glory is in their shame. They are focused on earthly things, 20 but our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. 21 He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of His glorious body, by the power that enables Him to subject everything to Himself.

The Apostle Paul told his readers if they wanted to know a true Christian, then watch how he lived and those who call themselves Christians live. Paul was a role model. Are you a role model? Yes. We all are role models whether we like it or not. We influence others – spouse, children, grandchildren, relatives, friends and people we do not know – places we shop, worship, work, go to school and the list goes on. Would you be willing to tell people to follow you and pattern their Christian life after you? Whoa, that is a challenge but that is exactly how we should live our lives. As Christians we are to be examples for others to pattern their lives after. That is why Christians must have and be in the right relationship with CHRIST.

Paul said there are enemies of the cross living among you and they desire to destroy you by urging you to do what pleases your physical and fleshly desires. Their focus is on the physical and sensual nature which is Satan’s playground. Christians must keep in their minds that this life is temporary and keep a heavenly focus.

Does that mean Christians are to go around looking and acting like gloom and doom? NO!!! JESUS came that all who believe in HIM will have life more abundantly. When we are free from the consequences of sin and death, we can be free indeed but with responsibility. It was easy for these false teachers to take the statement “JESUS came that we might have life more abundantly” and turn it into live it up because you have your fire insurance. Keep in mind that obedience to GOD and HIS commands result in heavenly rewards. Heavenly rewards last for eternity.

Philippi was a Roman colony and its citizens were proud of their Roman citizenship. Paul reminded them that through CHRIST they had a far better and more secure citizenship than any temporary earthly citizenship. A Christian’s citizenship is in heaven. Christians were waiting for the return of CHRIST and when that happened, they would be transformed by the power of GOD. They would receive their new eternal glorified bodies like CHRIST’S body.

When CHRIST returns the second time, those who have departed earth in death will come back with HIM. HE will transform the earthly bodies of those still alive on earth, as well as those who have died, into glorified bodies like HIS. Paul explains this in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18:

The Comfort of Christ’s Coming

13 We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, concerning those who are • asleep,[8] so that you will not grieve like the rest, who have no hope. 14 Since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, in the same way God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep (died) through[9] Jesus.[10] 15 For we say this to you by a revelation from the Lord:[11] We who are still alive at the Lord’s coming will certainly have no advantage over[12] those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout,[13] with the archangel’s voice, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are still alive will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air; and so we will always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore encourage[14] one another with these words.

Paul anticipated that some might question how will CHRIST do this? HE would do it using the same power that GOD gave HIM to have all things subject to HIM. Paul captured this thought in Ephesians 1:18-23:

18 [I pray]* that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the glorious riches of His inheritance among the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working of His vast strength.
God’s Power in Christ
20 He (GOD) demonstrated [this power]* in the Messiah by raising Him from the dead and seating Him at His right hand in the heavens[15]— 21 far above every ruler and authority, power and dominion, and every title given,[16] not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And He put everything under His feet[17] and appointed Him as head over everything for the church, 23 which is His body, the fullness of the One who fills all things in every way.

Another scripture you may care to read is 1 Corinthians 15:1-58.

The message of CHRIST is hope and assurance of eternal life. The world still lures people to live for the moment. Satan loves that message because it drowns out the true message of eternal salvation and security through CHRIST.

Freedom is a gift and eternal life is a gift. When you live in a country that offers physical freedom and you are a Christian, you are free indeed. Christians in America are free but that freedom can be lost if they yield to the pleasures and compromises the world offers. Compromise is easy and leads to destruction. My prayer is that all Christians will not be blinded by compromise and have the courage to take a united stand before it is too late. Christians must be an example to others. We are the salt of the earth and the light of the world.

Today is the day of salvation. Accept CHRIST as your SAVIOR and make HIM the LORD of your life. You will experience true freedom. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Possessions Why Be Generous? - Luke 19, 1 John 3 and 2 Corinthians 8 - June 26, 2011

Bible Study – Possessions – Why Be Generous? – June 26, 2011
This is our final lesson in our series of study entitled “Putting Possessions in Perspective.”
Our scripture is Luke 19:1-10; 1 John 3:16-18 and 2 Corinthians 8:3-4.

During the financial turmoil over the past few years, most of us have seen our possessions lose value. The stock market is down and real estate is down but gasoline is up and food prices are going up. Many of us can look at what we have lost. I thought, “Gee, I wish I had given away what I have lost rather than it falling into a dark hole where no one benefited.”

We bring nothing into this world and we take nothing physical from this world when we die.

So why be generous? Shouldn’t we have the attitude of eat, drink and be merry because tomorrow we die? JESUS had a message regarding this attitude in Luke 12:16-21:
16 Then He (JESUS) told them a parable: “A rich man’s land was very productive. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What should I do, since I don’t have anywhere to store my crops? 18 I will do this,’ he said. ‘I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones and store all my grain and my goods there. 19 Then I’ll say to myself, “You[5]have many goods stored up for many years. Take it easy; eat, drink, and enjoy yourself.” ’ 20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your • life is demanded of you. And the things you have prepared—whose will they be?’ 21 “That’s how it is with the one who stores up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”

The Bible is very clear; we are to place our focus on serving GOD, through our relationship with CHRIST as led by the HOLY SPIRIT. We are to seek first the Kingdom of GOD and HIS righteousness. When we have the right relationship with CHRIST, then GOD will add things to our lives. HE will never give us things that will lure us away from HIM. When our hearts are pure, free of greed and selfish ambition, GOD knows that we will use what HE provides to us as HE directs.

Why is everything through CHRIST? JESUS came in the flesh and proved that HE was and still is the ONLY SON OF GOD. No one has seen GOD but CHRIST, WHO was both GOD and man, lived upon earth and revealed GOD. If HE had died and that was the end, we would have no more reason to believe in CHRIST than any other human. So what is the difference?
It all began in the Old Testament and was fulfilled in the New Testament. CHRIST was sinless and gave HIS life to pay the price GOD required for the penalty for sin. Giving HIS life does not separate HIM from others who have given their lives but because HE was sinless does. How do we know that HE was the sinless Lamb WHO was acceptable to GOD? The critical difference is that HE conquered both sin and death. How do we know that? It is because GOD raised HIM from the dead.

CHRIST’S resurrection is proof that HE fulfilled GOD’S purpose. CHRIST is the promised Messiah. HIS shed blood redeems all who believe upon HIM for the forgiveness of their sins. Have you accepted CHRIST as your SAVIOR?

If you haven’t, ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life right now. HE will save you and you will experience the miracle of salvation through the miracle of rebirth and receive the free gift of eternal life. Not only does GOD give all who believe in CHRIST eternal life but HE gives them GRACE through the shed blood of CHRIST. GOD’S grace, through the shed blood of JESUS, washes away all sin - past, present and future. WOW!!! Now that is something to get excited about. Because CHRIST gave HIS life and was so generous in that while we were still sinners HE died for all who would believe. CHRIST is our example of generosity; as a result, we should in turn be generous to the physical and Spiritual needs of others as the HOLY SPIRIT leads us.

Why do I keep harping on as led by the HOLY SPIRIT? It is because there are those who will try to take advantage of those who are generous. One of the gifts of the Spirit is discernment. I believe generous givers need the gift of discernment. Giving is a balance. There are givers and receivers. It is all about the attitude of the heart and the HOLY SPIRIT knows the hearts of all people. Many of us fall upon hard times but most of us want to be able to stand on our own two feet and strive to get to the point that we don’t need help. We desire to be able to help others in need.

Those who give must be careful that their giving does not cause those to whom they are giving to become dependent. GOD’S desire is for those who are helped, and are able bodied, to provide for themselves so they in turn can become givers. The heavenly rewards are in giving – resources, time, talents and the list goes on. Those who give receive the benefit of giving. If we give grudgingly then our giving is in vain.

In last week’s lesson, Paul told us that giving was a reflection of our hearts toward GOD and giving benefitted those who give as led by the HOLY SPIRIT. Giving from pure hearts equates to Spiritual growth. However, giving in hopes that it will gain favor with GOD is of no value unless it leads to salvation or a deeper walk with the LORD. Only GOD knows the end result.
Mother Teresa said, “If you can’t feed a hundred, then just feed one.”

Let’s read Luke 19:1-10:
Jesus Visits Zacchaeus
1 He entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 There was a man named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. 3 He was trying to see who Jesus was, but he was not able because of the crowd, since he was a short man. 4 So running ahead, he climbed up a sycamore tree to see Jesus, since He was about to pass that way. 5 When Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, because today I must stay at your house.” 6 So he quickly came down and welcomed Him joyfully. 7 All who saw it began to complain, “He’s gone to lodge with a sinful man!” 8 But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Look, I’ll give[1] half of my possessions to the poor, Lord! And if I have extorted anything from anyone, I’ll pay[2] back four times as much!” 9 “Today salvation has come to this house,” Jesus told him, “because he too is a son of Abraham. 10 For the • Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost.”[3]

JESUS was traveling through Jericho. Jericho was located about 18 miles from Jerusalem and was a thriving center of commerce. In Jericho there lived a Chief Tax Collector named Zacchaeus. Tax collectors were despised by the people because they were known to collect more tax than was required by the Roman Government. They inflated the taxes owed by individuals because they could keep all the tax over the amount required by the Roman Government. Zacchaeus being the Chief Tax Collector likely meant that he had other tax collectors working for him. Zacchaeus was a very wealthy man and those living in that area did not look upon him favorably.

We are not sure of the nationality of Zacchaeus but his name is Jewish. Tax collectors were despised but a Jewish tax collector was the worst in their eyes.

JESUS was walking and a crowd was following HIM. Zacchaeus was a short man and he wanted to see this man called JESUS. He tried to get a glimpse of JESUS but being short and not liked by the people, the crowd likely made sure that he could not do what he wanted to do. I can see Zacchaeus jumping up just to try to get a glimpse of JESUS. GOD had a plan for Zacchaeus and the crowd. Zacchaeus also had a plan. He knew where JESUS was headed so he ran ahead of HIM and scrambled up a sycamore tree. The sycamore tree was an easy tree to climb because it had a short trunk and the limbs began close to the ground.

This gave Zacchaeus a great vantage point to see JESUS and little did he know it would put him in the spotlight. JESUS stopped and looked up into that tree and guess who HE saw? I can imagine that a hush came over the crowd because JESUS had HIS eyes fixed upon this terrible tax collector. The crowd likely expected JESUS to scold Zacchaeus for cheating the people. The crowd was eager to hear what JESUS was about to say. JESUS called his name. This probably startled Zacchaeus. He might have thought, “Gee, JESUS knows my name. How does HE know my name?” Tension likely mounted in the hearts and minds of both Zacchaeus and the crowd. Then JESUS spoke. HIS words shocked him and the crowd when JESUS said, “I must stay at your house.” In the eyes of the Jews, staying/eating with such a notorious sinner made a devout Jew unclean and socially unpopular. The love of CHRIST transcends what others think about a person and extends to all who seek HIM and need HIM.

WOW!!! These words were unbelievable to both Zacchaeus and the crowd. Zacchaeus was amazed that JESUS called him by name and then this Man of GOD was going to stay at his house. The crowd could not believe their ears – JESUS was going to stay with this sinner. This was a strong message to all.

JESUS had observed the effort Zacchaeus was making to get to see HIM. JESUS knew his heart and that he was seeking salvation. When a person’s heart is ready to receive CHRIST, all it takes is reaching out to him/her in love and acknowledging him/her as a person of value regardless of his/her profession or past. Zacchaeus was excited that JESUS thought him worthy enough to go to his house to stay and eat with him. This was a vote of confidence from JESUS to Zacchaeus. Zacchaeus accepted CHRIST as his Messiah on the spot. He did not wait.

We see that there was more to Zacchaeus excitement than the emotion of being accepted for who he was. His heart was changed because HE saw JESUS as genuine. On the spot and in hearing of those in the crowd who complained, he told JESUS that he would set matters right between him and anyone he had taken advantage of. Zacchaeus’ heart had been changed and he meant business in following JESUS.

According to Jewish law if a man stole a sheep, was tried and convicted, the man would have to pay for the sheep at four (4) times its value. Zacchaeus said he would restore four (4) times as much as illegally taken from the people. Zacchaeus meant business. His heart had been changed because he encountered JESUS. Has your heart been changed because you have encountered JESUS? If not, ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your heart right now.

How do you think the change in Zacchaeus’ life made the complaining crowd feel? Some likely thought how they would spend the money they were going to get from him. Those whose hearts were pure toward GOD through CHRIST likely rejoiced at the salvation of Zacchaeus. The proof that Zacchaeus’ heart was changed would be evident by his actions. Did he follow through with his commitment? I believe so.

JESUS’ message to all who were in the crowd was, if GOD can save a wretched sinner by your standards, HE can save anyone. So do not hold back from coming to GOD through CHRIST by faith and ask CHRIST to forgive you. CHRIST was on HIS way to the cross to give HIS life to pay for the sin of all who would believe that HE was the promised Messiah. As stated earlier, the proof that HE was and still is the promised Messiah is in HIS resurrection.

Let’s read 1 John 3:16-18: Love in Action
16 This is how we have come to know love: He laid down His life for us. We should also lay down our lives for our brothers. 17 If anyone has this world’s goods and sees his brother in need but shuts off his compassion from him—how can God’s love reside in him? 18 Little children, we must not love in word or speech, but in deed and truth;

When we consider “Why be Generous?” this scripture gives us the answer and supported by the following scripture:

John 3:16-18:
16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10] 17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the • One and Only Son of God.

JESUS gave HIS life for all who would receive HIM as their SAVIOR when all of us were sinners – Romans 5:8:
8 But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us!

Would I give my life in hopes that it would help someone? My love for that someone would have to be overwhelming. Guess what? HIS love for us was overwhelming.

Christians were bought with a price. Christians have been redeemed from the consequences of sin which is death. Paul put it best in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20:
19 Do you not know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 20 for you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body.[9]

Christians have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, CHRIST and made righteous. Therefore, those receiving salvation can be indwelled by the HOLY SPIRIT. Why? It is because of the grace of GOD. Grace is unmerited favor which cannot be earned. It is a free gift from GOD. GOD is overwhelmingly generous to HIS children. Let’s read 2 Corinthians 5:21:
21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us (Christians), so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

When Christians consider what CHRIST did for them, it is a small thing for them to be generous to others as the HOLY SPIRIT leads them. But Christians must have the right relationship to see this generosity through their Spiritual eyes and acknowledge it by their actions.

The Apostle John was telling his readers that having compassion is one thing but it is most important for a Christian to put compassion into action. James, the brother of JESUS, put it well in James 1:22:
22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

Let’s read 2 Corinthians 8:3-4:
3 I testify that, on their own, according to their ability and beyond their ability, 4 they begged us insistently for the privilege of sharing in the ministry to the saints,
The Apostle Paul was writing from Macedonia in hopes that the generosity of the churches in the area of Macedonia would challenge the Christians in Corinth to solve their problems and unite in fellowship. It is nothing like a common cause to bring people together and unite.
Paul had collected money from the churches in Philippi, Thessalonica and Berea for the Christians in Jerusalem who were suffering from poverty. The Christians in these churches gave sacrificially because they were poor but they wanted to do their part to help others. Those who are poor understand the needs of others. Their willingness to give sacrificially reflected the nature of their hearts toward CHRIST. It was out of deep love for CHRIST they wanted to help their fellow Christians in their time of need. They gave freely from pure hearts of joy. They were not coerced in any way. It was a privilege to give. Privilege means grace. It was their ministry. The Jews used the word ministry to describe benefits for the poor.

Christians give because CHRIST gave HIS life for them to have eternal life and all the benefits that come from being born into the family of GOD. They want others to know the joy of salvation through CHRIST.

Why give generously? It is because of what GOD did for us through CHRIST, WHO gave HIS life for all who would believe in HIM to be redeemed from the ravages of sin, which is death. Give generously from a pure heart filled with the love of GOD. Blessings!

Bible Study - Possessions - How Much is Enough - 1 Timothy 6 and Philippians 4 - June 19, 2011

Bible Study – Possessions – How Much Is Enough? – June 19, 2011
This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “Putting Possessions in Perspective.”
Our scripture is 1Timothy 6:6-8 9-12; Philippians 4:10-20.

How much is enough? How much do we need to accumulate? How much is enough to give and how much is enough to hold back to pass on to your spouse, children, grandchildren, church, Christian organizations, charities, schools and the list goes on.

As mentioned in last week’s lesson, the Bible is clear that we are to leave an inheritance when we leave this earthly life. We can leave material possessions but the greatest thing we can leave behind is a Godly life - A life that has honored CHRIST through obedient service - A life that has grown and matured Spiritually through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT – A life that leaves a legacy of faithfully walking with CHRIST. There are many more things Christians can leave behind such as ______, _____ and you fill in the blanks. Our lives are the keyhole through which others see CHRIST and GOD.

That is an awesome responsibility. That is why we must have the right relationship with CHRIST in order to walk each day pleasing to HIM. When we are in right relationship with HIM, we will have the right influence upon others who are observing our lives. It is an awesome and overwhelming responsibility.

When we speak of possessions we generally think of money, wealth and stuff. Besides a personal relationship with CHRIST, GOD gives to each one of us, Christian and non-Christian alike, the greatest possession of all. HE gives each of us 24 hours every day – rich or poor. How we use them is important. Do we share them with those we love and care about? Do we use them to build relationships and mentor others, especially our family? Do we idle them away? Or ?

As I write this, my wife and I spent the day at Dollywood. We heard a story about the difference between whittling and carving. Whittling is making something into nothing. Carving is taking nothing and making something. Often we begin whittling and end up carving. GOD can see the results and when we allow HIM to lead us as we whittle, then the end result will be something of value. GOD often whittles on us and trims away that which is of no value until something of value begins to emerge.

When we invest in the lives of others, often it is hard to see the result of our time and effort but one day we may. We must trust the leadership of the HOLY SPIRIT to lead and guide us in all things.

Let’s read 1Timothy 6:6-8:
6 But godliness with contentment is a great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and[3]we can take nothing out. 8 But if we have food and clothing,[4] we will be content with these.

The Apostle Paul was writing to Timothy. Paul connected Godliness with contentment. As humans, we brought nothing into this world when we were born. All of us were, as I heard when growing up, born “Naked as a jaybird.” Oh, some may have been born into a wealthy family but that wealth belonged to the baby’s parents or grandparents.

Paul stated that we need the basics, food and clothing. Included with clothing
is shelter. So Paul was saying food, clothing and shelter. These provide physical contentment.

Let’s read 1Timothy 6:9-12:
9 But those who want to be rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root[5] of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains.

Compete for the Faith

11 Now you, man of God, run from these things; but pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight for the faith; take hold of eternal life, to which you were called and have made a good confession before many witnesses.

Paul continued by focusing upon an attitude regarding riches. Those who pursue getting rich set themselves up to be trapped like an animal. Those who hunt animals dig a hole and place spears or sharp pointed sticks in the bottom. Then they place a cover over the hole to camouflage it. Then the animal is lured toward the pit. When it falls into the pit, the sharp sticks pierce its body through and all around with deep gashes.

Paul was painting a picture of what happens to those who focus upon getting rich. Satan uses that passion to lead them into a lifestyle that will destroy them. Notice what Paul says in verse 10. It is the “love” of money. It is not having money but it is the “love of money” that is the problem. This can be extended to many other things that take the place of loving GOD with all your heart, mind and soul – drugs, alcohol, pornography, gambling, house, career, cars and the list goes on.

Paul addressed the effects of having the wrong focus on riches. It leads a person away from GOD. Often those who have riches believe they are self-sufficient and do not need to rely upon GOD. Those who fall into the trap of craving riches become trapped in the hole and pierced on all sides with devastating wounds.

Paul urges Christians to flee from making riches your first love but focus upon pursuing - righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. The Christian is to make CHRIST his/her first love. Keep in mind that CHRIST said in Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (KJV) Riches are not wrong. It is the place they occupy in our lives. It is vital that Christians focus upon their relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

Christians are in a race. So much tries to occupy our minds, energy and divert us from winning. Christians are to stay focused on the heavenly goal as led by the HOLY SPIRIT. Christians know that they have been saved from sin and death via the shed blood of JESUS. They know they have eternal life, have been born-again; their citizenship is in heaven and are indwelled by the HOLY SPIRIT. Satan does not want Christians to focus upon what they know but some fantasy.

Let’s read Philippians 4:10-20:
Appreciation of Support
10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last you have renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me, but lacked the opportunity [to show it]* . 11 I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret [of being content]* —whether well-fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through Him[2] who strengthens me. 14 Still, you did well by sharing with me in my hardship. 15 And you, Philippians, know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent [gifts]* for my need several times. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that is increasing to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full, and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you provided—a fragrant offering, a welcome sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. • Amen.

In Paul’s letter to the Christians in Ephesus, he thanked them for supporting him in his time of need. He wanted them to know that he had learned the secret to be content with plenty or poverty. He had discovered that CHRIST was his sufficiency. When tough times hit his life he had experienced that CHRIST provided through HIS strength.

Even though CHRIST was Paul’s sufficiency, he was grateful that they had provided for his needs. Paul was delighted that they had supported him along his missionary journeys. In essence he was saying, “I am not thanking you because of the gift, which was much appreciated, but because of what I know it will mean to you Spiritually.” Their giving reflected their hearts. He knew that their relationship with CHRIST was sound because they were listening to the HOLY SPIRIT, WHO guided them to meet his needs.

Are we listening to the HOLY SPIRIT to meet the needs of others? GOD can meet the needs of others any way HE chooses but often it is through fellow Christians.

Paul considered their gift as a sacrifice. It was a sweet smelling fragrance because it represented who they were Spiritually. Their gifts were from their hearts. As a result, GOD would return to them many fold that which they have generously given to him. This abundant return could be physical, Spiritual or both. Paul knew that their gifts came from their hearts and GOD knew their hearts. From pure hearts, GOD rewards according to the givers needs.

Being content is an attribute which is learned from experience and trusting GOD in all things. It is difficult to be content. Most of us want just a little bit more. Paul stated that he had learned the secret of being content. Being content is not a natural attribute of being a human being. Paul said that it is learned in secret. Our physical surroundings cause us to turn inward to process our physical circumstances Spiritually. It is in the eyes of our hearts where contentment is given birth. This does not mean to relish in bad circumstances and refuse the help of others. It means that you know that CHRIST will take care of your needs. Therefore, when you have abundance or little your sufficiency is in CHRIST.

Greed in America has been rampant. We saw greed in many CEO’S in the past years. I hope and pray that our younger generations will have integrity, moral values and use their well trained minds for the benefit of the institution, company, its employees, community and customers in which they serve. I also pray that our political system will demand and breed ethical, honest, God fearing politicians who work for the benefit of our nation and not a party. To me, once a person is elected to serve in our political system, he/she needs to do the will of the people and not the will of the party unless it reflects the will of the people.

How is this accomplished? All of our hearts must be brought into harmony with the heart of GOD through CHRIST. It is all about having the right relationship with GOD through CHRIST. This means all of us. How we use our possessions is a reflection of our hearts. Are our hearts in tune with the heart of CHRIST? DO we understand and acknowledge that all that we have came from GOD to be used according to HIS direction. Do we use our time wisely? We all have 24 hours how do we use them?

In verse 19, Paul writes that GOD will supply all your “needs” according to HIS vast capability. Notice, HE provides our “needs” not our wants or desires but our needs – food, clothing and shelter. Our greatest need is to really know HIM through a loving, intimate relationship.

JESUS put it best in Matthew 7:9-11: 9 What man among you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!

How much is enough? When it comes to material wealth, most of us have a goal to obtain all we can get. When it comes to Spiritual wealth, the goal is to be made into the image of CHRIST. Which goal do you have your heart set upon? This life upon earth is temporary but eternity never ends. Where should we place our focus – the Bank of Earth or the Bank of Heaven?

Bible Sudy - Possessions - Where Is Your Heart? Matthew 6- June 12, 2011

Bible Study – Possessions – Where Is Your Treasure? – June 12, 2011
This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “Putting Possessions in Prospective.”
Our scripture is Matthew 6:19-34.
Where is your treasure? My wife and I were in Brussels Belgium on September 11, 2001. Our son and daughter-in-law worked near the Pentagon. Our other three (3) children and their families were in different locations in the United States. We were concerned for their safety as well. We did not know what would happen next. The stock market was tanking. What was of value? It was not the money disappearing but the safety of our son and daughter-in-law in Washington, DC and our other children and their families. It was the death of those poor souls in New York, Pennsylvania and the Pentagon. It was the future of our nation. It was who planned such an attack and what else might be coming. Many questions ran through our minds.

We may amass a great fortune but when we die, we take nothing with us. There are no U-Hauls behind the hearse. But those who have been obedient to GOD through CHRIST will have treasure waiting for them in the heavenly treasury. Our scripture focuses on what JESUS taught regarding true treasure. JESUS had begun HIS earthly ministry. HE had taught the “Sermon On the Mount.”

Let’s read Matthew 6:19-21:

God and Possessions – JESUS Was Teaching.
19 “Don’t collect for yourselves treasures[14]on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where
thieves break in and steal. 20 But collect for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves don’t break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

JESUS made it clear that true value was not in how much money or stuff we have while we are upon earth. JESUS was in essence saying, “Do not treasure the material things you have because bad things can happen to them- moths eat clothes, rust destroys metals and if none of that happens, thieves can steal them. Nothing in this life is safe but there is a safe place where you can store them, heaven.” JESUS was making the point that having things are not wrong. It is wrong when we allow them to take the place of obediently serving GOD. The Bible is clear that money is not the root of all evil but it is the “love” of money that is the problem. Where is our heart regarding stuff? It is okay to have stuff but what place does the stuff we have rank in importance to Spiritual matters?

The Jews believed that those who had material possessions were blessed by GOD. The more stuff a person had, the more GOD had blessed him/her. Blessings do come from GOD. HE gives material blessings but with these material blessings comes responsibility and accountability to HIM. It is vital that the blessings from GOD are not misinterpreted – because I have, I am doing the LORD’S will. Are you? Are you in right relationship with HIM? Does HE lead and direct your life, through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT?

JESUS made it clear that what you treasure is where your heart is. GOD made earth in all of its majesty and said it was good. But GOD did not tell us to worship earth. In fact, HE is very clear that humans are not to make any image of HIM using the things HE created. HE wants our hearts to be pure before HIM and HIS desire is for us to store treasure where it is safe and secure in heaven. So how do we acquire heavenly wealth?

First, we must have the right relationship with GOD through JESUS CHRIST. We must ask CHRIST to forgive us for our sins believing that CHRIST gave HIS life to pay the penalty for sin. CHRIST conquered sin and the consequences of sin which is death. When a person becomes a Christian he or she is born into the family of GOD and his/her citizenship is in heaven. In essence, an account is opened at the moment of salvation in the heavenly treasury, the Bank of Heaven, secured by the blood of JESUS and the power of GOD.

As Christians obediently serve GOD, HE leads them to the things HE desires for them to do according to HIS plan and purpose. As Christians obediently respond, they earn heavenly rewards. When we go to foreign countries that have a different currency than we do, we have to exchange our money into their money. When we are obedient to GOD, HE exchanges our acts of obedience into heavenly currency. HE alone controls the exchange rate.

Let’s read Matthew 6:22-24:
22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. So if the light within you is darkness—how deep is that darkness! 24 “No one can be a slave of two masters, since either he will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot be slaves of God and of money.

What is in your heart? The Apostle Paul speaks of the eyes of your heart in Ephesians 1:18-19 – “18 [I pray]* that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the glorious riches of His inheritance among the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working of His vast strength.” The eye picks up images of light and quickly discerns and communicates with the heart to determine action. The action taken depends upon the motives of the heart. The heart is the will of the soul. JESUS was speaking of a person’s heart condition. How do the eyes of our heart view the things that we have? If our heart is in right relationship with GOD we view them one way and if not we view them another way.

When the Bible refers to light it usually is referring to the HOLY SPIRIT. Thus, when a Christian is in right relationship with GOD his/her eye is sound or healthy and the Christian obediently functions in accordance to the will of the FATHER. If his/her heart is sick then he/she is Spiritually sick and is filled with darkness. Are you filled with light or darkness? If you are filled with darkness, how deep is that darkness? A Christian can have different levels of darkness.
Light guides us through the dark. In Spiritually dark times, Christians must seek the light and rekindle the fire of their hearts so they can travel a safe path back to the right relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

How Christians view their material possessions can reveal their Spiritual health. JESUS put it well when HE said, “No one can be a slave to two masters.” Christians choose to use the things GOD provides to serve materialism or HIM during their time upon earth. No one will take material possessions with him or her when they leave this earthly life.
The secret is for Christians to obediently serve GOD by yielding their lives to GOD and allowing HIM to direct what they do with the possessions they have. When our eye is not healthy, we will make decisions that appeal to our flesh. When we try to hold on to our wealth, it compromises how that wealth is used. I can tell you this is an area I struggle with. We have obligations and goals for our lives such as leaving stuff for our family when we exit earth. The Bible is clear. We are to consider what we will leave for our family. But the real question is “How much is enough?” This is the subject of new week’s study.

JESUS said it correctly, “We cannot be slaves of GOD and money.” The words JESUS used carry the idea of total loyalty to each master. It is impossible for a person to completely be loyal to two masters. Keep in mind making money is not wrong. Wealth in itself is good but how it is used is critical. When we are in right relationship with GOD, we will use it correctly. If not, we will misuse it.
So what do we do? We ask GOD to search our hearts and reveal what is in our hearts, then act accordingly.

Let’s read Matthew 6:25-34:
The Cure for Anxiety
25 “This is why I tell you: Don’t worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Isn’t life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the sky: they don’t sow or reap or gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you worth more than they? 27 Can any of you add a single • cubit to his height[15]by worrying? 28 And why do you worry about clothes? Learn how the wildflowers of the field grow: they don’t labor or spin thread. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was adorned like one of these! 30 If that’s how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and thrown into the furnace tomorrow, won’t He do much more for you—you of little faith? 31 So don’t worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ 32 For the idolaters[16]eagerly seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God[17]and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you. 34 Therefore don’t worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

It is natural to be concerned about what you eat and wear. Food, clothing and shelter are the basic needs of mankind. Notice a key word in verse 25, “worry.” Worrying does not solve the problem. It is trusting GOD and seeking a solution.

JESUS had just stated that a person cannot serve two masters – GOD and Satan. Who do you depend upon when you are faced with survival? JESUS expects a person to be active in providing the things that will sustain him or her. As a person does his/her part, GOD does HIS part. JESUS expanded on HIS message.

JESUS used lessons from life. Who is more important for GOD to take care of – animals, flowers or mankind who HE created? Since GOD takes care of the birds of the air, aren’t you worth more than birds? This begs a positive response – Yes.

JESUS, posses another question, “Can a person grow taller or add time to his/her life upon earth?” The answer is no. In essence HE was saying, “Do what you can do and GOD does what you cannot do.” The idea was worry will not provide for your basic needs.

JESUS said, Look around you and consider the wildflowers. Look at their beauty. They have purpose. They are beautiful but exist for a short while before they become fuel for the oven to cook the food you will consume.

A person is of greater value to GOD than wildflowers, therefore, why do you worry? GOD provides your needs because you are of great value. You were of such great value that CHRIST considered you worthy enough to give HIS life for you.

We must consider what we need versus what we want. What we need is a loving, intimate relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Having stuff can interfere with that if we give priority to stuff over CHRIST.

Those who do not know GOD seek stuff. GOD cares for those who have committed their lives to HIM, through CHRIST both Spiritually and physically. The secret for GOD’S care is for HIS children to have the right relationship with HIM. HE knows what people need because GOD made them. The most important matter is for Christians to seek first the Kingdom of GOD and HIS righteousness and all the very things you desire will be provided. Why does JESUS tell us to seek first the Kingdom of GOD?

Throughout the day many things vie for our attention. There are material things, physical things, things we desire and Spiritual things. Something will occupy our minds. The thing or things we desire will occupy our minds. JESUS tells us to let Spiritual matters take priority and fill our minds. What would JESUS DO? HE mingled with the people and HE had a social life. But HE was always open to the leading of GOD to minister. Where is our heart? What is our desire? Most Christians desire to obediently serve GOD as led by the HOLY SPIRIT. I believe it is all about having the right relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

We must keep in mind that GOD will not give HIS children something that will harm them, physically or Spiritually. So often, we try to bargain with GOD. We either say or hide in our hearts the idea of, “If YOU will do so-and-so, I will do so-and-so.” It boils down to what is in our hearts. What is our motive? Do we serve GOD to be able to get what we want? Or do we serve GOD without any hidden motives and out of pure hearts of obedience realizing that all we are and all we have comes from HIM? Can we add an inch to our stature? Will worry solve our problems and concerns? The answer is no. But GOD can solve problems, bring comfort, give direction and provide our needs. Not necessarily our wants but our needs.

JESUS told HIS listeners to take each day as it comes. HIS listeners were to do their part by focusing on their relationship with GOD and doing what they can do as GOD leads and directs their lives. They were to take each day as it comes and not worry about tomorrow. HE did not say, “Sit upon your hands and do nothing.” The Bible is clear that we are to plan and work toward a goal but as GOD leads. Planning and organizing are vital but worrying is wrong.

Seek first your relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Allow HIM to direct your life and allow HIM to exchange your obedient service into heavenly currency where moth does not eat, nor rust destroys or thieves steal. Giving our tithe is good but GOD desires more than our money. HE desires our hearts to be filled with HIS marvelous light. Ask HIM to search your heart and reveal anything that prevents you from obediently serving HIM and having an intimate, loving relationship with HIM. Blessings!

Bible Study - Possessions - What Do You Own? - 1 Chronicles 29 - June 5, 2011

Bible Study – Possessions – What Do You Own? – June 5, 2011

This is lesson one (1) in our series entitled “Putting Possessions in Perspective.”
Our scripture for this lesson is 1 Chronicles 29:10-20.
A right perspective regarding our possessions begins with the recognition that everything we have belongs to GOD. We have the responsibility of managing the trust GOD gives us. Recognizing and acknowledging that all we have belongs to GOD is one thing. But living by it can be a challenge. Does that mean, as Christians, we give everything away willy-nilly? It means that Christians live and give as led by the HOLY SPIRIT, which requires the right relationship with GOD through CHRIST. When the HOLY SPIRIT leads Christians to give, it is joyful. GOD does not want Christians to give grudgingly. If we are not joyful when we give or give grudgingly, we need to confess it to GOD and ask HIM to reveal our hearts. It could be that we do not have the right relationship with HIM or that our giving or motive is wrong.

GOD’S desire is for Christians to be cheerful givers. We must keep in mind that HE also expects HIS children to be responsible givers and take care of our families. Yes, GOD provides but HE gives us common sense and a brain to manage what we do with the provisions HE gives to us. There are many opportunities for people to give but there is also a balance. This does not diminish the need but it does emphasize the need for Christians to be led by the HOLY SPIRIT. It is hard to say no to a worthy cause but sometimes it is necessary to be obedient.

I know I can hear some say, “You cannot out give GOD!” That is true but neither can you give to everything that comes along. Pray and act upon discernment, which is guided by the HOLY SPIRIT. Christians must be careful that they are not giving to test GOD. Such that, if I give all that I have GOD will take care of me. If you are led by GOD to do so, then HE will take care of you but if it is you testing GOD to provide, you will go hungry. Christians need discernment. Many of us have heard stories of a fellow Christian stating, “I gave my last cent to GOD or my rent money or whatever and the next day I had a check in the mailbox for that amount or “X” times that amount.” These are exciting examples of GOD providing as the result of our obedience but GOD must lead the person to exercise that step of faith. If you step out in faith without being led, you will be disappointed. It is a very fine line between your will or GOD’S will. Our hearts can be deceptive. Do we want a story to tell to build our egos and be able to tell to others?

In the lessons this month we will explore:

June 12 – Where is Your Treasure – Matthew 6:19-34.

June 19 – How Much Is Enough? – Philippians 4:10-20; 1Timothy 6:6-12.

June 26 – Why Be Generous? – Luke 19:1-10; 1 Corinthians 8:3-4; 1 John 3:16-18.

Many Christians struggle with giving, especially if those responsible for the use of the funds at the institution, church or organization do not use them as we think they should. Christians should be discerning but they also must examine their attitude, whims, pet projects, etc. Do they withhold their funds because ___? How Christians answer that question is very important.

Christians who give are accountable to GOD, just as those responsible for using the things given, are accountable to GOD for using them as HE directs.

Our scripture is a prayer that King David uttered to GOD near the end of his life. David’s heart’s desire was to build a temple for GOD. David was a warrior and had blood on his hands. GOD said “no” to David’s request to allow him to build the temple but GOD would allow his son, Solomon, to build the temple. David did not sulk or get mad at GOD. GOD did permit him to prepare to build the temple. David was busy gathering materials and making plans for the temple that Solomon would build. David accepted GOD’S decision. David delighted in using the wealth GOD had given him to be able to contribute toward the building of the temple.

Let’s read 1 Chronicles 29:10-11: (GOD Owns Everything)

David’s Prayer

10 Then David praised the LORD in the sight of all the assembly. David said, “May You be praised, LORD God of our father Israel, from eternity to eternity. 11 Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the splendor and the majesty, for everything in the heavens and on earth belongs to You. Yours, LORD, is the kingdom, and You are exalted as head over all.

King David had just made healthy contributions toward building the temple and he asked the people to contribute. They responded with generosity and David, as well as the people were rejoicing at the response of their leaders and themselves. This is David’s prayer of thanksgiving to GOD in the hearing of the people.



Often prayer gives insight into the Spiritual nature of those praying. David’s prayer revealed his heart toward GOD. David began his prayer using the word “praise.” Praise comes from a Latin word meaning “value” or “price” which translates to “merit” or “worth.” Praise was directed to GOD. HE alone was worthy and had value because we as humans have been gifted with life and all things good from GOD. HE has entrusted HIS children with a trust filled with good things. Some may say, “Well, I must have been standing behind the door when HE passed out all these good things.” We must keep in mind that GOD gives us the right to make decisions. Have we made good decisions? Has sin robbed us? GOD forgives us of our sins when we confess them, but we have to contend with the consequences of our sin.

David acknowledged the eternal nature of GOD and that HE is the Father of Israel. David acknowledged the majesty, greatness, power, glory and splendor of GOD both in the heavens and on earth. Everything belongs to GOD and HE is in control of everything.

How big is your GOD? Does HIS greatest end with your ability to provide? Can your GOD go beyond your ability to provide? David saw that GOD went beyond his ability to provide all that was needed to build the temple. He was overwhelmed with joy and praise because with the help of the people, they could build the temple.

King David was a leader and we studied leadership last month. We see in this scripture that David gave, which influenced others to give generously toward the building of the temple. The result was that all who gave rejoiced at the work of the LORD through the people. GOD received the honor. Ezra recognized that GOD’S hand was in his life and Queen Esther was at the right place at the right time. We are in this life for just a time as this. Can you look back and see the hand of GOD working and guiding your life?

David’s prayer continued.

Let’s read 1 Chronicles 29:12-16: (GOD Gives Us What We Have)

12 Riches and honor come from You, and You are the ruler of everything. In Your hand are power and might, and it is in Your hand to make great and to give strength to all. 13 Now therefore, our God, we give You thanks and praise Your glorious name. 14 “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? For everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from Your own hand.[12] 15 For we are foreigners and sojourners in Your presence as were all our ancestors. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope. 16 LORD our God, all this wealth that we’ve provided for building You a house for Your holy name comes from Your hand; everything belongs to You.

David acknowledged that all things come from GOD – riches and honor – because HE is ruler of all things in the universe and upon earth. This statement revealed the depth of David’s heart toward GOD.

David saw GOD as the power and might to make those who obediently serve HIM great and strong. As a result of the generosity of the people, David saw that it was GOD’S hand that had provided. The response of the people was a direct result of GOD providing through them, because apart from HIM no one has anything. David acknowledged that all that anyone has comes from GOD and they are simply returning it back to HIM, a portion of what HE had given to them.

This is the heart of the message to Christians. We are stewards of the trust GOD allows us to manage for HIM. This includes our lives, our children, careers, wealth, possessions and the list goes on and on.

David recognized his mortality and that life was a gift of time to serve GOD. Building a physical temple was to honor GOD and for the world to see. Christians are the temple of GOD for the world to see and to bring honor and glory to GOD. Christians are the temple of GOD because when they receive CHRIST as their SAVIOR, they also receive the HOLY SPIRIT. The HOLY SPIRIT indwells every Christian.

In verse 14, David asked “Who am I.” He was not asking GOD to identify him but “Who am I, a mere mortal to be the recipient of such vast generosity from YOU, GOD?” All people should ask that same question, especially Christians. The way we find the answer is to seek to know GOD through CHRIST. It is having the right relationship with HIM through CHRIST. You and CHRIST become intimate best friends and sharing your most intimate thoughts. As you walk together through life, you build trust with each other. This is sanctification – going through the good times and the bad – building trust, confidence and getting to know each other.

David had journeyed with GOD for a long time. He journeyed from tending sheep as a young lad, to this point in his life. He knew GOD and GOD knew him.

Let’s read 1 Chronicles 29:17-20: (GOD Examines Our Heart)

17 I know, my God, that You test the heart and that You are pleased with uprightness. I have willingly given all these things with an upright heart, and now I have seen Your people who are present[13] here giving joyfully and[14] willingly to You. 18 LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our ancestors, keep this desire forever in the thoughts of the hearts of Your people, and confirm their hearts toward You. 19 Give my son Solomon a whole heart to keep and to carry out all Your commandments, Your decrees, and Your statutes, and to build the temple for which I have made provision.” 20 Then David said to the whole assembly, “Praise the LORD your God.” So the whole assembly praised the LORD God of their ancestors. They bowed down and paid homage to the LORD and the king.

Why do you give? David acknowledged to GOD that his heart was pure toward GOD in his giving. He did not have an ulterior motive in his giving. He gave from a pure heart because he felt led of GOD to do what he was doing.

This is so true. If the trustees of the resources we give do not use them the way they should, they are accountable to GOD. Our part is to give as we are led to give. It is the responsibility of those who manage what is given to do so according to GOD’S plan. We are all accountable to GOD – giver and receiver.

David gave insight into the GOD’S mind according to his experiences with GOD. He stated that GOD tests us.

It may be like the story I heard of a man on a very turbulent flight promising GOD if HE would let him get back to the ground safely, he would give HIM half of his wealthy. The flight landed safely and as the man exited the plane, there happened to be a Catholic priest walking along his side and told him that he hoped he would honor the promise he made to GOD. The man replied, “Oh, I made a better deal with GOD, I told HIM if I ever got back on a plane I would give HIM all that I had.”

So often, we bargain with GOD. GOD knows our hearts and tests us, not for HIM to know what is in our hearts but for us to know. Often, what is revealed is not pretty.

David stated that GOD was pleased with uprightness. You never hide the truth from GOD.

David’s desire was for them to always give generously out of pure hearts because they acknowledged that GOD owns everything and they are stewards. He asked GOD to keep a close check on the motives of their hearts.

David closed his prayer with a request for GOD to give his son, Solomon, the right heart filled with the right motives to obediently serve HIM. In order for Solomon to do that, Solomon had to have the right relationship with GOD and so do all Christians. Christians need to pray for their children.

Christians are building a life. They build careers, social lives, family lives, and Spiritual lives. Do you include GOD in your life? Oh, I can hear some say, “What has GOD done for me lately?” I ask you to look around you and behold HIS handy work. Look at your very life. You are living in a miracle, the human body. Oh yes, it gets sick. Death and decay are the result of sin. CHRIST paid the price to redeem all who would believe upon HIM from sin and death. The resulting free gift of salvation is eternal life, being born anew into the family of GOD and citizenship in heaven. Look around you at the universe, the heavens, the mountains, the flowers, trees, vegetation, the very air we breathe, the creatures both great and small. GOD’S handy work is all around us. HE provides the very food that sustains us.

David concluded his prayer with the words, “Praise the LORD your GOD.” The people responded from joyful hearts at the work of GOD through them.

David had walked with GOD and he knew GOD. He trusted GOD because of the relationship he had with GOD. Journeying with GOD does not always mean smooth sailing. David had many rough spots in his life, just as many of us do. David committed adultery, had Bathsheba’s husband killed, wanted to hide what he had done and had to be confronted with his sin. He confessed his sins and GOD forgave him. He still had to suffer the consequences of his sins. He loved GOD and GOD loved him.

David did not give to atone for his sins but he gave out of a heart that had been purified by GOD. He gave because he felt led to do so and the joy of giving. He gathered the materials for a work that Solomon would have to finish.

Why do we give? Is it to ease our conscience? Is it in hopes that GOD will let us into heaven? Is it to build our ego? Is it to show off what we have? Or do we give out of a pure heart as GOD leads us by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT? Is it a joy when we give? Only you and GOD know the real reason.