But...I Don't Feel Like It

Take His Word: Exodus 35:4 to 36:7; 2 Corinthians 9:1–7

“Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:6,7).

Take Some Advice:“Some of the worlds greatest feats were accomplished by people not smart enough to know they were impossible.” — Unknown

Take It to Heart: The Tabernacle, with its elaborate furnishings, represented God’s presence and facilitated God’s interaction with His people. Is it any wonder they were anxious to participate in gathering its provisions? They didn’t have to be pressed into giving. But imagine being told, “You’re giving too much. We can’t take it any more!” If they were that motivated to provide for a tent, how inspired should we be to contribute toward changing lives in which God truly desires to reside?

Take Up the Challenge:A team from an A/G college just finished ministering in a large church’s Sunday morning service. As the pastor was closing, the group leader noticed a middle-aged man in tattered clothes limping up a side aisle. Almost a distraction, he took several moments to reach the front. Pulling a crumpled envelope from his soiled overcoat, he handed it to the leader and said, “I hope this helps.” Then he turned and walked laboriously back down the aisle. The church didn’t receive an offering for the group, but gave a modest honorarium following the service. At that time, the group leader pulled out the envelope and opened it. Inside were two one-dollar bills. The students knew the man who had given it probably made a larger sacrifice than anyone in the church that day—including them.

Take Action: Think of an appropriate challenge you’ve been given at home, work, school, or church that you just haven’t felt like doing. Make a conscious decision to put feelings aside and do what’s best—today if possible. Your efforts may spark determination and enthusiasm in a few others who don’t usually “feel like it.”

Take It to God: Pray for missionaries in Africa who are using the twenty-five vehicles, eight motorcycles, and one trailer provided by STL last year.

GIVE It Up For God: $_________ left to go toward my goal.