BIBLE READING: Exodus 35:1-35

 

KEY BIBLE VERSE: Both men and women came, all whose hearts were willing. Some brought to the Lord their offerings of gold—medallions, earrings, rings from their fingers, and necklaces. They presented gold objects of every kind to the Lord. (Exodus 35:22)

 

God is pleased with personal giving. Those who spun cloth made a beautiful contribution to the tabernacle. Good workers take pride in the quality and beauty of their work. God is concerned with the quality and beauty of what you do. Whether you are a corporate executive or a drugstore cashier, your work should reflect the creative abilities God has given you.

 

BIBLE READING: Ezra 2:64-70

KEY BIBLE VERSE: When they arrived at the Temple of the Lord in Jerusalem, some of the family leaders gave generously toward the rebuilding of God's Temple on its original site, and each leader gave as much as he could. The total of their gifts came to 61,000 gold coins, 6,250 pounds of silver, and 100 robes for the priests. (Ezra 2:68-69)

 

God is pleased when we give generously. As the temple reconstruction progressed, everyone contributed freewill offerings according to his or her ability. Some were able to give huge gifts and did so generously. Everyone's effort and cooperation were required, and the people gave as much as they could. Often we limit our giving to 10 percent of our income. The Bible, however, emphasizes that we should give from the heart all that we are able (2 Cor. 8:12; 2 Cor. 9:6). Let the amount of your gift be decided by God's call to give generously, not by the amount of your leftovers.