Tag: unity

Generosity results in mutual thanksgiving

2 Corinthians 9:11-15

There’s an old saying that goes, “if momma ain’t happy, the house ain’t happy.” I think it’s safe to assume that this could only mean when things are going the way mom expects them to, it brings her great pleasure. But in those moments when dad is getting on her nerves and the kids are acting like Power Rangers, beware; the wrath of mom is near! A healthy and functional family isn’t one that’s perfect in all things, but one that is consistent in love, peace, and generosity. The last thing a parent expects to see is a brother or sister fighting over something they could so easily share. But when brother and sister are supporting each other, this usually was passed on from a good example by their parents. God takes delight in seeing His children working together. It’s His will that we prosper, so it’s important to Him that we seek to support our hurting family members, rather than ignore them.

Everyone faces a season of lack in some area of their life. For this reason, it’s important that believers stay focused on the will of God, so that they’ll always be ready to assist when the moment comes. It’s unfortunate that the church has swayed away from God’s original model of recovering from lack when the body supported each other from their own provisions. But people have become so selfish and arrogant until they expect you to work as hard as they did to get what they’ve earned, rather then help meet your need. I can recall a few times when I had to make a few Amscot runs, because “church folk” turned me down for assistance. But God’s model can still work, if only the church would follow it.

Paul mentions the “administration”, or “ministering to the saints” in verses one and twelve. When the church supports one another, four major benefits are exposed. Generous giving supplies the needs of the saints, causes them to glorify God, gives proof of true Christianity, and encourages those who receive, to continue in prayer and holy living. When God meets a need in your life, this builds upon your faith, and helps you believe more when you go through another season of trial or temptation. Many say they love you, but where’s the proof? You prove your words by your actions. For God so loved us, He gave His best. That’s all the proof I needed to believe. When you tell others you love and care for them, don’t hide your hand when they need help. This not only discredits your character, but it also puts a bad stench on Christianity. Be like the Corinthians in this lesson, who had the means to promote charity, as well as the heart to do it. But always acknowledge that God is the source of all provision, whether natural or spiritual.

Seek peace,

Ell

Take care of widows now

Acts 6:1-6

The early church in the New Testament started off great! The people had all things in common, and no one lacked anything. Even those who owned land or houses, sold them so the funds could be evenly distributed among the believers who needed assistance. The apostles operated in the power of God and were responsible for many great miracles.

The fame of the church grew and membership increased greatly. The more people there are together who will believe God, the greater will be the atmosphere of faith created. This will make it easier for others to experience answers to their prayers. But wherever you have a large gathering of church folk, problems become inevitable.

The early church was comprised of a mixture of people from different lands, who all were protective of their own. We learn from this text that the “having all things common” situation had finally flown out the window, as there arose murmuring among the people.

The Greek-speaking Jews complained against the Native Jews who spoke Hebrew, because their widows were neglected in the “daily ministration.” I researched what the daily ministrations were, and can safely assume this included all the relief from what was accumulated after the people had sold their houses and land. In any case, something had to be done, because we learned from the previous lesson God’s feelings concerning the protection and safety of widows.

In order to resolve this issue before it escalated, the apostles gathered together and selected seven holy and faithful men to attend to the tables where collections were received and distributions to the people were made, so that they could continue to spread the word of God. This worked out perfectly!

The work of ministry requires that everyone play their part in keeping unity among the body. All members of the body are important, and no one should ever be left unattended to.

If you belong to a ministry where one department is favored over another, then there should be a meeting to discuss reorganizing or structuring the departments, so that all areas are treated equally. I often mention how the usher board at many churches seem to get little to no recognition, yet they hold one of the most important jobs in the church.

Never get too caught up in your position, until you neglect the needs of others. Allow the Holy Ghost to order your steps, and guide you every way that you should go.

Seek peace,

Ell