November 26

Beginning with the Spirit and then going to the law (or works). I think that applies to all of life doesn’t it? I was thinking of financial provision and how it comes from God. I was going to give a little more to missions today because I love supporting missions and other ministries. However I heard the Lord say not to give any more than such and such as my normal offering. At first I doubted that it was God telling me that, but now after today’s reading, I am convinced it was God. He saw something in my heart that needed to be “nipped in the bud”. I must have been, ( because I was unaware of it) giving to get the blessing. That is works my friends! Although I know that giving puts me in the position for receiving more, that CANNOT be my motivation! Otherwise I am caught in the trappings of works to ‘get” from God. That is not how God operates – especially in my life! I have to continue to believe and trust that He will supply all I need because of His promise and His faithfulness, not because of anything that I do.

By the way – Paul equates trying to earn God’s favor (keeping the law) with losing your joy.