verse 12: “For if the readiness is present, it is acceptable according to what a man has, not according to what he does not have.”
How many times have we heard (or said to ourselves) “oh, if I could just win the lottery (or the sweepstakes, etc.), I could really give to the church or to charities.” It’s a good thing church finance committees don’t base their budgets on such wishes. I think it’s a common desire for all Christians to wish they could give more; but wishing so and actually doing it are two different things.
Look at it this way. I have a basic toolbox and set of tools at home. Now, I am no accomplished carpenter by any means (those who know me, please do not laugh!), but I do fairly well for “around the house” type jobs. If you were to ask me to do a major carpentry job, I might be willing and I might be ready, but if I don’t have a skillsaw, sawhorses, and other type equipment to do the job, the job is not going to get done very well.
We need to give according to what we have and by God’s command to give the tithe; do not give what you do not have. I think that’s one reason our nation has such a problem with debt nowadays! (and I haven’t even talked about the federal government yet!) This is not to say do not plan; you can make plans on giving, and situations can change that alter those plans. A gift from someone is truly appreciated when it is given from the possessor of that gift, not only the pledge of the gift. To quote our church treasurer again, get your financial house in order, then see about your giving!
Have a blessed day!
Combing The Word 