God’s Wish List Pt-6&7 ~ Message 119

  Here the emphasis is on the lack of messages from the pulpits about proving the will of God.  According to scripture pastors are to declare the whole council of God but there are many topics that are avoided.  Such as in Second Corinthians 9:7 “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver”.  Only the cheerfully part is emphasized.

  When it comes to giving the important thing is supporting the church so we can do more for God, so the necessity is emphasized for raising more money for buildings, missionaries and outreach programs of all kinds.  Grudgingly is seldom, if ever mentioned at all.

  Grudgingly in the text refers to what happens when members are encouraged to give beyond their supply, like overspending for Christmas.  Sadly the truth is that giving for a need only satisfies a temporary situation and there is always more need and giving that’s not from the heart becomes a duty, like Christmas presents for people because of the holiday.  The worst part is that there is no joy.  Giving for a need gives a feeling of self satisfaction not joy, and feeling pressured brings feelings of regret or even worse later on.

  God loves it when giving is done like buying a gift for a loved one when the primary purpose is the happiness of the receiver.  In this case the giver experiences the pleasure of anticipation, the excitement of the receiver at the presentation and the feelings of accomplishment as the receiver benefits.  In this case, "It is more blessed to give than receive" that's a three to one ratio.     

Salient Points: Unheard messages, Rejected efforts, Believing we are right, Going our own ways, Take God seriously, Placing confidence in self, Lacking understanding, Responding to God’s offer, Faithless & fearful, seeing the miracles, Praying for your own ways, God works in a bigger picture, Not taught but experienced, Living with daily proof, Giving of duty, The unknown glory, Changing from glory to glory, Following pastors, Bypassing the middleman, More Love Joy Peace & Faith, Confident living, Rejecting the glory message, God knows our works, Just trying to serve God the best we can, To be continued:    

Scripture: 2Cor. 5:7-10, Prov. 21:1-2, Is. 53:6, Eph. 5:6-10, 2Cor. 3:17-18, Rom. 12:1-2, Eph. 5:9-10

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