verse 5: “and this, not as we had expected, but they first gave themselves to the Lord and to us by the will of God.”
The other day, I quoted our church treasurer: “you need to get your own financial house in order, so that you don’t wind up giving what you don’t have.” The occasion to which he was speaking had to do with the dedication of our church’s new family life center. This was a goal that we had prayed collectively about for these last few years, and this day was the day we got to “move in”. It was a marvelous day. We still have a lot to do, not just future-use-wise (using this to further God’s Kingdom), but money-wise (paying it off).
It’s hard to give when you don’t have the money to give (I’m strictly speaking financially here). It’s harder still when you don’t know if you have the money to give or not. It’s similar to reaching others for Christ; how can you minister in His name, if you are not already a Christian yourself? Remember the story of Paul’s missionary work; there were some men, the seven sons of Sceva, who tried to cast out an evil spirit, saying “We command you by Jesus whom Paul preaches.” The evil spirit answered, “Jesus, I know, and Paul, I know. But who are you?”
Never let that question be asked of you; if you do not know Him, ask Him into your heart today.
Have a blessed day!
Combing The Word 