SATURDAY June 3, 2023
A Worldwide Famine
And in these days prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch. Then one of them, named Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world, which also happened in the days of Claudius Caesar.
Acts 11:27-28
On this occasion, we see traveling prophets arriving in Antioch. One of them was called Agabus. He gave a troubling prophecy about a worldwide famine that was coming. Historically, we know the famine happened.
Paul and Barnabas listened to the prophecy and acted upon what Agabus spoke. They were smart and formulated a plan. Once the famine started, they willingly gave financially to take care of the people of God, so that nobody starved. They gave sacrificially: Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul (Acts 11:29-30). They trusted these men of God.
How are Christians to give? We give in the same way––according to our ability. They determined in their hearts to give––beautiful. Consider these important principles for giving found in God’s Word:
Deuteronomy 16:17: “Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD your God which He has given you.”
2 Corinthians 9:7: So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.
1 Corinthians 16:2: On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper....
Understand, people should never be pressured into giving. As God blesses you, it is your decision on how much you want to give. Any giving should be done willingly from the heart. This is how God provides for our church: the care of the property, the coffee house, the screens, videos, and spreading the Gospel around the world. When you give to the Lord, you are investing in eternity. I wholeheartedly thank you for giving.
Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing....
~Proverbs 3:9-10~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
