Gathering Weekly Mission Offerings
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Putting God’s Requirements First
God’s requirements come first. We are not doing His will if we
consecrate to Him what is left of our income after all our imaginary
wants have been supplied. Before any part of our earnings is consumed,
we should take out and present to Him that portion which He claims.
In the old dispensation, an offering of gratitude was kept continually
burning upon the altar, thus showing man’s endless obligation to God.
If we have prosperity in our secular business, it is because God blesses
us. A part of this income is to be devoted to the poor, and a large
portion to be applied to the cause of God. When that which God
claims is rendered to Him, the remainder will be sanctified and blessed
to our own use. But when a man robs God by withholding that which
He requires, His curse rests upon the whole.—
Testimonies for the
Church 4:477
.
Our Divine Exemplar
The foundation of the plan of salvation was laid in sacrifice. Jesus
left the royal courts, and became poor, that we through His poverty
might be made rich. All who share this salvation, purchased for them
at such an infinite sacrifice by the Son of God, will follow the example
[145]
of the True Pattern. Christ was the chief cornerstone, and we must
build upon this foundation. Each must have a spirit of self-denial and
self-sacrifice.—
Testimonies for the Church 3:387
.
Christ Values Deeds of Love
Christ values acts of heartfelt courtesy. When any one did Him a
favor, with heavenly politeness He blessed the actor. He did not refuse
the simplest flower plucked by the hand of a child, and offered to Him
in love. He accepted the offerings of children, and blessed the givers,
inscribing their names in the book of life. In the Scriptures, Mary’s
anointing of Jesus is mentioned as distinguishing her from the other
Marys. Acts of love and reverence for Jesus are an evidence of faith in
Him as the Son of God.—
The Desire of Ages, 564
.
No offering is small that is given with trueheartedness and gladness
of soul.—
Christ’s Object Lessons, 359
.