Read
Number 7:11, "The Lord said to Moses, ‘Let one leader bring his gift each day for the dedication of the altar.'"
Think
You may be thinking that today's reading was far less than exciting. Why do we need to know what the leaders of each tribe brought as an offering for the dedication of the Tabernacle? It's to show that God is a God of order, that He wants us to worship Him not only by the way we live but with our heart to give. And, throughout the Bible, we see that God meant for us all to work together, through generosity, to carry out His plans. It's a reflection of the church - we are all to do our part to promote and advance God's house.
Why, then, is it often so easy to focus on what we don't have rather than on what we do have to give? We all need a shift in perspective. We need to remember that God has blessed us so we can bless others. And, it's when we look for ways to bless others - with whatever we have - that we have the chance to be a part of something great. God modeled this for us when He gave His only Son to secure us a place in eternity with Him. When we follow His example of generosity, then we can offer this life of hope, blessing, and purpose to others.
We all have something to give. Are you living out God's best with an attitude of gratitude and a heart of generosity? If not, take a page from today's reading and give to the only institution Jesus ever built - the local church!
Act
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Pray
Heavenly Father, You are a God of generosity and purpose. You have blessed my life in countless ways, and I want to be a blessing to Your house, the local church. Open my heart to give generously to help advance Your kingdom. Amen.