Grateful Hearts

At the end of the month when funds are low, we are often stretched and stressed when we look to ourselves for all of our needs. As a child, the bible story in Luke of the poor widow who gave 2 mites comes to mind when Jesus said she had given more than all the kings, made an impression on me. God encourages us to be cheerful givers, not building up treasures for ourselves, but trusting him to supply our every need. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and All these things will be added unto you." Matthew 6 vs.33.

As we leave a season of thankfulness and enter a season of giving, I am reminded of the song verse that says, "Give thanks with a grateful heart." Grateful giving is what we are called to do and if we have not, God instructs us to ask, so that our dependence is on him. II Kings, Ch 4-8. Talks about the widow who has no money to pay the debtors and Elisha instructs her to gather vessels to pour her only pot of oil into so that she may then sell the oil and pay her debts.

God is also the supplier of all our needs, yet he says that when we give out of our need and trust him, his heart is touched by our generosity, and his love then shines brightly through all we think, say and do.

I pray our hearts are like the widow's, not looking to the things of this world, but looking to God the author and finisher of our faith, being a faithful witness in word and deed to those around us.

Song: Give Thanks....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TC0fkWA2INw