Better than the Lotto II

Heb. 11: 6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Tuffy is busy romancing Millie under the big Mango tree in Mas Rupert’s cow pasture. “I love you more than cooked food. For you I will climb the highest mountain, swim the widest ocean… I will stick by you till eternity end…” Just then Mas Rupert’s bad tempered bull appears and starts to head their way. Tuffy clambers up into the mango tree, calling out over his shoulder, “Right now you deh pon you own, my girl. If you can’t climb, run fe you life!”

OK. So it’s just a touch of drama, but it illustrates the point. Talk is cheap. Many times those who talk strongest about love fail when it comes time to put it into action. And this is very true when it comes to us and God. So many people talk about loving God, but if showing the love calls for a bit of sacrifice or inconvenience, well….

Yesterday we talked about God asking us to return a tenth of our gains to show our love and loyalty. But many people, like Tuffy, forget love and appreciation when it comes to the point of testing. “I don’t have enough money”, they say; “I have bills to pay”. But wait! You had nothing before God gave it to you. Since even the little that you have came from Him, don’t you think He can replace what you give back to Him? That is the love test. Can you pass it? Or is your love “Tuffy” love?

Now, some people say, “My income is so small, one tenth is nothing!” Well, that is the beauty of the plan. The amount is not important to God. He doesn’t need it. It is the relationship that matters. That is why even students and children who are not earning are asked to be a part of this covenant, because you too can have a love relationship with God, returning God’s tenth from whatever He gives to you. And when that happens, He promises to bless you abundantly. What a wonderful way to express our faith in Him! Try it and see how God comes through for you.

Dear Lord, today I accept your offer of a love partnership and promise to return a faithful tithe out of all you give to me, in Jesus ’name, amen.