I'm Guessing

Warriors Arise: December 5, 2023

Matthew 6:1-4 “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.

I am guessing Ananias and Sapphira were not at this teaching. Read Acts 5:1-11. I wonder if Jesus saw them in the crowd and caught their eyes then spoke directly to them, knowing what was in their heart.

Scripture tells us on different occasions that Jesus knew the hearts of man. They had sold a piece of land, brought the money to the disciples. The disciples were recording and asked if it was all the money. They said, "Yes," which was a lie. They held some of the money for themselves.

It was not wrong for them to hold some of the money for themselves. It was their land and their money. Scripture does not tell us that they had a word from God to sell the land so it was a gift they are giving to the church. However, they wanted to be identified with Joses, mentioned in Acts 4:36 & 37. He had sold his land and given all of the sale to the disciples.

Everyone knew what Joses had done and his gift was accepted by God. However, Ananias and Sapphira sold their land and gave part of the sale to the disciples. Which was their choice. They didn't have to lie about keeping some for themselves. It was their's to give or keep. This is where Jesus' message from Matthew 6 comes into practical reality. Ananias and Sapphira were giving to get personal recognition and be honored for being selfless. However, the Holy Spirit knew. They would not mock God and take His honor.

We may be able to trick people, but God will not be mocked. Eventually, our sins will be made known. God will not share His glory with another. Joses gave and everyone knew; however he gave to honor God, not for his personal credit. Ananias and Sapphira gave because they wanted to be given honor.

Father, I want to give with a pure heart like Joses. I am grateful for all You have given me. I pray I would be an excellent steward of what you have given. I pray I would be willing to give when You say to give, even if it is everything I have. I pray You would receive all the glory, honor and praise. I do not have to be afraid to be without. You will provide for me. I will always have enough. You are faithful. I pray my giving would bring You honor, glory and praise in Jesus' name amen.

A Warrior in the Lord’s Army,

Veridee Joy Hand

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