THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27
1 Corinthians 16:1-4
2 Corinthians 9:1-15

“Now concerning the collection
for the saints …”

DESIGNATED GIFTS

When fellow brethren are in need, it is important that we not only pray for them but also offer practical help when it is in our power to do so. Paul was concerned for the saints in Jerusalem who were suffering in poverty due to persecution. The other churches of God were not to be apathetic to their plight. Remember, no man is an island in the work of the Lord!

Paul was moved to initiate a relief fund for the saints in Jerusalem. Let us observe how this collection was done.

First, it was Paul who set the spiritual direction for the collection. He made sure that the Christians in Corinth understood the purpose and basis of the collection. When we designate gifts, we must understand why we are giving and how this gift will help the recipients. A gift which is inappropriate or untimely may end up ruining the life of the recipient.

Second, the collection was done on the first day of the week, that is, the Lord’s Day. This gives us the basis for presenting our tithes and offerings before the Lord when we come to His house every Lord’s Day. Note that this giving was done cheerfully, not of compulsion, for the Christian is to give “as God hath prospered him” (1 Cor 16:2). He is to give according to what God has given him and not beyond his means.

Third, note the carefulness in which the Apostle Paul approached the collection of the relief fund. He made sure letters of authority were written so that everything would be transparent, leaving no grounds for him to be accused of corruption or the misappropriation of funds. Great care must be taken in handling the funds of the church, for it belongs to the Lord, and must be used for His work.

THOUGHT: “…God loveth a cheerful giver” (2 Cor 9:7).
PRAYER: Father, help me to give cheerfully to Thy work.