Daily Power #337

“Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD your God which He has given you.” (Deut. 16:17 NKJV)

The first time I tithed, I was a junior in college. I’d worked all summer teaching tennis lessons and made what I considered a lot of money back then. Then I heard a message on giving, and I thought, Okay, I’m doing this, and I’m doing it with the right attitude. This is going to be an act of worship. And I wrote out what seemed like the biggest check in the world.

I remember putting it in the offering plate with this thrilling sense that I was putting my money where my mouth was. I was trusting God with everything—my heart, my mind, my time, and my money. And as you’ve learned by now, for someone as frugal as I was, that was no small thing.

The same day, my grandmother called me and said, “Craig, God has put something on my heart. I’m so excited that you’re now a follower of Jesus, and I want to buy you a car.” I was speechless. This was my grandmother who was raised during the Depression. We never saw her spend any money, and I had even wondered if she lived on air.

And she bought me a car. Not just any car, a biblical car. You know, a Honda Accord—because all the disciples gathered in one Accord. My grandmother’s surprise gift made a huge impact on me. She modeled incredible stewardship but also knew how to listen to God and give generously.

Today talk to God about what he wants you to give—to him and to others.

Power Lift

Father, I’m so grateful for the many ways you provide for me. Today use me to provide your blessing for someone in need.