God Blesses What You Give

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21 (NASB)

Fasting is giving of ourselves and our time. It is sacrificing our fleshly desires so not to be controlled by what we eat. Whatever we give, God will bless. He will not only bless it but is able to do “far more” than we can imagine (“ask or think”). But did you catch the second part? According to the power that works within us. Why do we fast? To let God have control, to draw closer to Him, and yes to see more of His power at work in our lives. It is what is in your heart that is the direct driving force of God’s power. Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

The widow in Luke 21 had her heart in the right place when she went to the temple to give to the Lord. She fully understood what it meant to sacrifice to God trusting in His provision for your daily needs. I am not sure we always grasp the significance of this scripture. She was not only poor but Luke 21:4 tells us, she...put in all that she had to live on. When was the last time you gave everything you had? She gave everything she had financially. In giving completely, God is able to pour out His blessings. During this study, I have had to ask myself about the areas that Pastor Sam often prays and asks God to bless us. Do I give completely financially, relationally, spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally?

The widow gave out of her poverty, meaning in the world’s eyes, she didn’t have it to give. She would not have money for rent, clothes or food. But she also knew, the world was not her judge. Her small offering that day was driven by a powerful and prayerful relationship with her God. She had complete faith and trust that if she did what He asked He would provide for her.

Giving completely of ourselves during a fast is the key to open the door of God’s blessings. That day, Jesus had been answering questions from the Pharisees, Sadducees and Scribes. They had been trying to trick him by asking what they thought were hard questions. He had just told them to beware of those who like to walk around praying and talking for appearances sake. Jesus then sat down and was watching people put money into the treasury. There were many rich and influential people bringing their offering, many were bringing very large amounts of money, but it was the widow who caught His attention and touched His heart. She was the one He used as an example of giving. She has been honored by her story being told in the Bible and all she gave was 2 copper coins worth a cent (the smallest Roman coin) but it was all she owned. What are you giving?

Bible Reading: Mark 12:13-44