| Day 262: Read today's devotional on Bible Gateway. Giving in Gratitude"And now, because of my devotion to the Temple of my God, I am giving all of my own private treasures of gold and silver to help in the construction. This is in addition to the building materials I have already collected for his holy Temple. I am donating more than 112 tons of gold from Ophir and 262 tons of refined silver to be used for overlaying the walls of the buildings and for the other gold and silver work to be done by the craftsmen. Now then, who will follow my example and give offerings to the Lord today?" Then the family leaders, the leaders of the tribes of Israel, the generals and captains of the army, and the king's administrative officers all gave willingly. For the construction of the Temple of God, they gave about 188 tons of gold, 10,000 gold coins, 375 tons of silver, 675 tons of bronze, and 3,750 tons of iron. They also contributed numerous precious stones, which were deposited in the treasury of the house of the Lord under the care of Jehiel, a descendant of Gershon. The people rejoiced over the offerings, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord, and King David was filled with joy.
(1 Chronicles 29:3-9) ReflectDavid gave from his personal fortune for the Temple. He encouraged others to follow his example, and they willingly did. Both the tabernacle (Exodus 35:5–36:7) and the Temple were built from the voluntary gifts of the people. Like David, we can acknowledge that all we have comes from God (1 Chronicles 29:14-16). We may not have David's wealth, but we can develop his willingness to give. It is not what we have that counts with God, but our willingness to give it. These leaders displayed a right attitude toward their money by giving willingly to God's work. This attitude is described by Paul in 2 Corinthians 9:7: "You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. 'For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.'" When we are generous because we are thankful, our attitude can inspire others. RespondConsider how God has generously provided for you. How can you give cheerfully and generously to the work of the Lord? You can give your time, talents, or tithe. How will you instill in your children the value of giving? |
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