Scripture to Read: 1 Corinthians 16:1–4
God has taught us so much through His Word in 1 Corinthians. We are in our final chapter, and God used Paul to deal with a few more things that we must take to heart as God’s children. We read in 1 Corinthians 16:1–4, “Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so do you also. 2 On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper, so that no collections be made when I come. 3 When I arrive, whomever you may approve, I will send them with letters to carry your gift to Jerusalem; 4 and if it is fitting for me to go also, they will go with me.” God has always called His children to help take care of those who serve our Lord in full-time ministry. Note that God had Paul make reference to the church in Galatia as another church to serve as an example to the believers in Corinth. God has given all of us great examples in our lives of those who willingly give of their tithes and offerings every week to support the ministers and ministries of the church. Without obedient Christians giving financially to the church, both ministers and ministries would suffer due to a lack of support. Also, note that God had Paul ask the believers in Corinth to go ahead and start giving on the first day of every week in proportion to each person’s prosperity. May we all continue to give as God has given to us.
Challenge & Application
Why is it important for all of God’s children to give financially to support both ministers and ministries?
How has God guided you to give, and how have you seen God mature you in the ministry of giving?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!