One of the high points of a worship service should be the time the offering is collected. Many people, however, fail to realize the great blessing that is theirs through giving to God. They withhold their time, talent, and money from the Lord, and by doing so, they miss a tremendous blessing.
True praise incorporates giving. In fact, we cannot praise God adequately without giving something of ourselves to Him through prayer or praise.
Through giving, we acknowledge God as the one in control of all things.
In Exodus 23:19, God admonishes us to honor Him with the "firstfruits" of our crops. We give to God because we know He loves us and has given more of Himself to us than we could ever give back.
Giving is an integral part of worship and praise, but it is not restricted solely to the area of finances. Jesus explained this to His disciples in the parable of the sheep and the goats: "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me" (Matthew 25:40). We actually praise and honor God when we show kindness and care for someone else.
You may be wondering if God really cares whether or not you give. He does—but not because He needs your gift. What He desires is your declaration of faith in Him.
Through giving, we acknowledge God as the one in control of all things. We also testify to our dependence on Him and that we are only stewards of what He has given to us. Regardless of your financial status, God is the one who has provided for every need you have. He is totally faithful. Therefore, He is worthy of your praise, honor, and worship.
Each of us can give the first portion of our time, talents, and wealth to the Lord. When we do, we acknowledge Him as the source of all blessing.
Prayer: Lord, I acknowledge that You are the giver of all good things. I freely open my hands to You. Show me opportunities to be exceedingly generous in loving You and loving my neighbor. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"Bring the best of the firstfruits of your soil to the house of the Lord your God" (Exodus 23:19).
Learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef's sermon Empowered by Praise, Part 5: LISTEN NOW
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