GIVE YOURSELF FIRST
Dr. Mike Okonkwo
24 July, 2021
‘’And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.’’ 2 Corinthians 8:5 KJV
These people were poor and it wasn’t just poverty; it was a deep one. Despite that, they were still generous, willing to go beyond themselves. They even pleaded with the apostles to receive their gifts. The apostles wanted to go and say, ‘’don’t give us. You need it more than us.’’ But they said: ‘’No! We don’t want to be deprived of the benefit of being a blessing to others. It may be small, but we want to be in the number. We want to be counted.’’ Beloved, can God count on you for His kingdom?
Beyond the gifts, these people first gave their own selves. The reason you find it difficult to give to the kingdom is that you have not first given yourself. If you don’t give yourself, how can you give your talent, your gift, and your time?
According to the Bible, these people were totally sold out unto Jesus. ‘’Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with loving kindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s” (Psalm 103:1-5 KJV).
When you truly appreciate God, you will surrender yourself completely to Him. Do you know what it cost Him for you to be saved? Yet, you are arguing with Him about whether to give your money. The reason is that you have not given Him yourself.
No one will beg you to get to church on time if you understand that He gave you Himself. He gave you Himself so that you can be saved. If you understand this, no one will tell you about being involved and committed in the church.
Further Reading 2 Corinthians 8: 1-15, 9:1-8
Daily Bible Reading: Morning- Psalms 35-36; Evening- Acts 25
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