Celebrating the offering is a spiritual discipline. Offering is as much a faith issue as our prayer life and worship. It is a lifeline to a relationship with the One who offers us life and to have it abundantly. While cultural standards say the accumulation of wealth and possessions constitute success, Christian discipleship requires looking at our offering as a discipline to develop our faith and trust in God.

In Matthew chapter 19, when Jesus challenged the rich young ruler to sell his possessions and give the proceeds away, he walked away disappointed, recognizing all that he would have to forfeit. As an act of love Christ gave his life for us and that is a sacrificial gift. Our offering is one expression of our gratitude to God. Just as exercise strengthens the athlete, spiritual discipline strengthens the believer.

From Celebrating the Offering by Melvin Amerson and James Amerson

Used by permission