Introductory Thoughts
Many historians and certainly the Jews praised Solomon’s temple as the most glorious structure ever built. Yet, most people fail to realize that the love of Solomon’s father for the Lord supplied much of the material to make the temple a reality. The Bible says that David set his affection on the house of God and gave of his “own proper good, of gold and silver.” When we love someone, we have no trouble giving to that person. When we love a cause, we have no trouble giving to that cause. Perhaps one reason why some people fail to give to the Lord and His work stems from the fact that they really only love the Lord with lip service. Or possibly the reason why people fail to give to the work of the Lord is because they have no concern for the work of the Lord to continue. David gave because he set his affection on the house of God. Which example applies to you?
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): The church has a building in which the people meet to worship God, help one another, and carry out plans to bring others to the Lord. A full-time pastor has more time to study God's word and pray and help the ministry to grow. It takes money to keep on the lights, heating, water, and air conditioning. None of this would be possible if not for the people who love God giving to His work.
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(For everyone): Is it hard for you to give to the Lord? If so, what does this suggest about your love for Him? What did His love for us cause Him to give? What should our love for Him cause us to give?
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Are you thankful for the work of God that is being done in your local church and around the world? What are you doing to insure that the work does not cease and that it continues unhindered?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to perfect your love for Him.
- Ask the Lord to help you give toward His work.
Song
ALL THAT THRILLS MY SOUL
