Copyright © S P Townsend
One pledge that went horribly wrong. We are taken aback by the outcome. After all, they did give a sizeable amount. Being struck down by sudden illness, with healing after confession and prayer, we could understand. But death? For being economical with the truth?
Now we aren't taken aback when someone breaks the rules regarding electrical power and is tragically electrocuted. So why be surprised when the power involved is that of God himself? When we sin, either God withdraws his powerful presence or we have to be dealt with. The wonder of the gospel is that God can deal with us in grace through Christ's blood and righteousness if we repent and seek his forgiveness. But if we persist in our sin we expose ourselves to the full effects of the awesome power of his presence. He is a consuming fire. The tragedy is that so many Christians settle for second best. They are happy to live lives that grieve the Holy Spirit, and are complacent about the fact that because of this God withdraws His presence and power. The glory departs.
The lesson is that even when we are doing something that is so close to God's heart as giving, if we do it with impure motives and unclean hearts it would be better not to give at all. Do not pledge and do not give if your motives are wrong. First put your heart right, and then you will be able to give with purity of purpose. Actually this goes far wider than just our motives for giving. Teaching of Jesus to put things right with others before bringing a gift to the altar.
Guilt – I feel convicted so I'll do something to relieve the guilt.
Peer Pressure – others are doing it, and I want to be accepted as one of the group.
Pride – I want people to think well of me and praise me.
Trade – I want God to do something for me.
A Christlike attitude towards possessions (Acts 4:32)
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing. (Phil 2:5-7)
Living in the fullness of God's Grace (Acts 4:33)
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. (2 Cor 8:9)
A Heart of Love for the church (Acts 4:32,34,35)
If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. (1 Cor 13:3)
Copyright © S P Townsend