Systematic Benevolence
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The apostle suggests the first day of the week as a proper time to
review the course of Providence and the prosperity experienced, and
in the fear of God, with true gratitude of heart for the blessings He has
bestowed, to decide how much, according to His own devised plan,
shall be rendered back to Him.
God designs that the exercise of benevolence shall be purely volun-
tary, not having recourse even to eloquent appeals to excite sympathy.
“God loveth a cheerful giver.” He is not pleased to have His treasury
replenished with forced supplies. The loyal hearts of His people, re-
joicing in the saving truth for this time, will, through love and gratitude
to Him for this precious light, be earnest and anxious to aid with their
means in sending the truth to others. The very best manner in which to
give expression to our love for our Redeemer is to make offerings to
bring souls to the knowledge of the truth. The plan of redemption was
entirely voluntary on the part of our Redeemer, and it is the purpose of
Christ that all our benevolence should be freewill offerings.
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