THE WORD FOR TODAY - INPUT VERSUS OUTPUT

"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously."

-2 Corinthians 9:6 (NIV)

Giving is a very important aspect of life, God gives and gives to us all the time, air to breathe, sunlight, rain, gentle breeze, friends, families and above all He gave us His one and only Son. The law of seed time and harvest remains eternally, our text today further emphasises that our level of income depends on our outgoing, we will receive just as much as we are willing to let go. It's important to examine ourselves, and identify which areas we are not receiving much, and determine to begin to sow in that area. Do you need friends, then show yourself friendly, sow some love, kindness, forgiveness, lend a helping hand. The subject of giving to the work of God remains controversial to a lot of people. Many pastors receive angry criticism when they dare to preach about stewardship. Sceptics mock and criticize ministries that ask people to give. The Bible teaches that tithing is an important principle. Jesus, in fact, said we should not neglect to tithe (Luke 11:42), because tithing is not 'giving', because the bible says the 10% belongs to God anyway, we are commanded to 'bring' it in. Malachi 3. 

Many times we profess to love God, but find it difficult to give to Him in obedience to His Word, giving of our resources such as our money, time and talent is important, it demonstrates that we place God first and realize we owe everything to Him. Remember, the level of our giving, will determine the kind of return we'll receive. If we sow "sparingly," we will "reap sparingly." If we want to "reap bountifully," we need to sow "bountifully. Jesus also told us in Acts 20:35 that it is more blessed to give than to receive. "Never forget that the seed that leaves your hands doesn't leave your life, it goes into your future to wait for you there. Your input will always determine your output.

Confession

I am a giver, therefore blessings come to me, I dedicate my time, talent, and treasure for the service of my Master and others around me. All I have belongs to You Lord. Halleluyah!

SOURCE: JOLA AND DEXTER AKIN-ALAMU