FROM THE DESK OF PASTOR WILL: Giving is Worship

[Rev. William Griffith]

When we give in faith, especially to those most in need, we are in a state of worship. Jesus did not mince words when he told us in Matthew 25 that when we give to the least of these, we are giving to Him.

Our very human nature compels us toward self-preservation. If we have anything left, maybe then we'll think about giving. But to give in faith means to trust God on a level that goes against the grain of human nature. Jesus calls us to a state of self-denial on a daily basis. When there is a need we need to trust God to meet it. Our prayer life often resembles our routine Christmas list to God. God, please give me this. Please give me that. But when we step outside of our comfort zone, pick-up our cross and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ as He requires of His followers, we do so in a state of worship.

Luke 21: 1-4 tells the story Jesus told about the poor widow who gave all she had. What she gave amounted to about a penny. She could have given one coin and kept one coin. Instead, she gave all she had to God. Jesus tells us that she gave more to God than all of the treasury combined.

Self-denial is not an easy thing for God's very human creature, unless of course, we are in constant communion with God. Pray without ceasing, we are told. Worship the Lord always. Acknowledge Him in all we do and He will direct our path. He will provide for our needs, according to His riches. And He is always faithful.

I have said it before, but must again inject it here: THE POOR ARE WITH US TO TEST OUR HEARTS. POVERTY EXISTS TO BRING US CLOSER TO GOD. When we give and give cheerfully, without anxiety and without worry, we give in faith. We worship the Great Provider.

Today, resolve to trust God. Give and watch how the presence of God becomes real and tangible in your life and walk. Worship the Lord and know that He is walking with you. More often than not He is carrying us. Let us pick up our cross and follow Jesus Christ. Let us not simply believe in Jesus Christ, but let us FOLLOW Him. Let us trust Him. Let our hearts be filled with the worship of giving.

~Pastor Will Griffith

 Evangel Pacific Ministries