I’ve recently finished a study on the parables that Jesus spoke to the people of His day. What I’ve come to learn is that even though I’m not a sower, a sheep herder, or a wealthy land owner, these earthly stories with heavenly meanings are very relevant in my life. As a wise student of Scripture, I am entrusted with Jesus’ words and am expected to be transformed by them.

In a couple of parables we’ve studied, we’ve learned about giving. Financial support of God’s kingdom is taught throughout Scripture. It is something we are called to do.

God doesn’t ask us to give of ourselves or our talents or our money because He needs it. He asks us to give so that we might be transformed. So that we might be more like Him.

One statement made in this study went something like this (I can’t seem to find the actual quote in the book) in regard to John 3:16. When we give we are most like God.

I’m reminded of Jesus’ words in Luke 21 as He watched the rich place their offering into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow place two small coins into the treasury. This is what Jesus said. “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more in than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” (Luke 21:3-4 – NIV)

This widow placed her trust in God. She believed that if she gave all that she had, He would care for her.

That’s what God is looking for. Willing people whose hearts completely trust Him.

God gave His only Son for mankind. He gave the ultimate gift. When we are open to sharing what we have, we are most like God.

Today, I want to share this beautiful song that encapsulates the Gospel. As you read and listen, I pray that you place your trust in God. I pray that you’ll look at giving in a new light. I pray that God’s Word will transform you.

“God so Loved the World”

God so loved the world.
God so loved the world,
that He gave His only begotten Son,
that whoso believeth, believeth in Him
should not perish, should not perish
but have everlasting life.

For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world.
God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world;
but that the world through Him might be saved.

God so loved the world.
God so loved the world,
that He gave His only begotten Son,
that whoso believeth, believeth in Him
should not perish, should not perish
but have everlasting life,

everlasting life, everlasting, everlasting life.
God so loved the world.
God so loved the world.
God so loved the world.[i]

Click here to listen to this beautiful melody.

 
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna