December 14
Straight from the Pastor’s Heart by Dr. Hernes Abante
Galatians 6:6-7 - “Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
[7] Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”
The context of this passage describes the responsibility of the disciples to their mentors. The student to a teacher. This also can be applied to the relationship between the children and their parents. Those who are being blessed must not neglect to return the blessing to those who are serving the Lord.
Strictly speaking, the context concerns honoring the man of God for teaching His “word,” mentioned explicitly in the passage. Paul understood the need of the servants of God, so he maintained his tent-making business to provide for himself and his ministry. He knows the tendency of some Churches that promise support but lack the commitment to fulfill it.
Whatever support anyone gives to God’s servant is blessed by the Lord. He uses the principle of “Sowing and Reaping,” signifying that God has a pattern or a process that cannot be stopped to bless those who give cheerfully and directly from the heart.
This is a Thanksgiving offering. It is not a payment for their service but a way to extend gratitude to God for using the men of God in training and feeding them the Word.
The Bible does not state this as a command but as a gentle reminder to “let” or allow those who are blessed, pleased, and thankful for being the recipient of God’s Word to express their thanks.
Galatians 6:10 - “As we have, therefore, opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.”
This offering must be given “while” there is an opportunity. It does not say “if or when.” We need to be a blessing while there is an opportunity. It means we need to make an opportunity and not wait.
We cannot outgive God. Giving is the way to receive blessings if the giving comes from a cheerful heart. God is magnified when we submit ourselves to be His channel of blessings. Consider the blessings God has promised to those who give:
2 Corinthians 9:8 - “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:”
God has blessed IBBC for the last 34 years. It is time to bless God and give Him our thanks by building an edifice of His grace. Let us “rise up and build.”
Our Prayer for today!
Lord, make us continually thankful for those you have sent to teach and feed us spiritually. May we be generous, for You are the ONE who provides through us as your channels. Use us to bless and pray for the needs of our leaders. May we do this freely and gladly.
You have blessed us so much through the years. Help us to honor you with a beautiful building, Your house, where we can praise and worship you. Use your people to give and see the fulfillment of our desire for Your glory and praise.
In Jesus Name. Amen!