Yesterday we talked about the story from 2 Kings 4 about the widow and the oil.  Many times it is hard for us to apply the truths of scripture when we look through the filter of a very complex society.  Rather than starting with our circumstances, we need to begin with the Word of God.  We saw several things in the encounter of the widow woman with Elisha.

First of all, no one is immune from pressure, whether it is financial or in any other area of life.  Being a follower of Christ does not mean that we are going to be spared any type of challenge or obstacle.  It does mean that we are not going to walk through it alone and He will be there to sustain us. We must depend upon Him rather than ourselves.  Remember, selfishness drives us from God but proper stewardship draws us to Him.

Secondly, God will always begin with what you have.   We try to work to put ourselves in a position to be acceptable in every area. But God wants to us to begin with what we have, and He will use that for His glory.

Thirdly, in the end it is all about faith and obedience.  Having the faith to trust the Lord and then the action of obedience, putting into practice the principles we find in His Word.

Very few people have a real understanding of what is going on in this world, but if we follow these simple principles, we can live above the fray and know the victory that is in the Lord. You will be surrounded by people this week that probably have no comprehension of these principles.  It is your responsible and opportunity to model and share these principles with them.

Yesterday the news was filled with information about tax day. Very few people in America could miss the fact that this day symbolizes the obligation that we have to support our government through taxes.   I saw somewhere where one poll said that74% of the American people felt that some of our tax money was being wasted.  No one likes to pay taxes because many times they are uncertain of the results. Like many people, I had to write a check this year.  It wasn’t a big one, but I had to write one just the same.  That’s not a fun thing to do, but the Bible is very clear that we are to render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s.  That means we are to fulfill our responsibilities even though at times we may be in great disagreement with some of the policies of our government.

The scripture also says that we are to render unto God what is His.  I am looking forward to Sunday for a number of reasons.  I am excited about the opportunity to be with God’s people.  I am anticipating the Lord doing something in the lives of people as we proclaim His word.  I am expectant that God will do something in the hearts of people as we proclaim the truth of His Word.  I believe people will be encouraged as they are a part of Bible Fellowship, discipleship classes and various other ministries.  I am looking forward to giving.  I give on a regular schedule.  I use the draft method that takes it out of my bank account the first of every month.  I like that because it puts the Lord’s work in first place.  But I also like to give on the Sunday after tax day.  There is nothing spiritual about it, it’s just a good reminder to me that just as I render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s,  I need to render unto God that which belongs to Him. I have no question but that the money is going to be used to touch the hearts and lives of people and to share the gospel here and around the world.

I have had several opportunities this week through our ministry and other ministries we support to see the impact that our giving has for the cause of Christ.  There is a lot that I am looking forward to this Sunday, but one of the best things is the opportunity to give.  I refuse to look back and complain about what I had to do and instead I am going to look forward and be grateful to God that He lets me be a part of His work.

Today   the film Letters to God opens at Spartan 16 here in Spartanburg. It is a story of how a little boy, his family and friends handle a case of terminal cancer through their commitment to Christ. I had an opportunity to see the film and I highly recommend it.  It deals effectively with how a walk with God can impact those who are dealing with cancer and those that surround them. It gives a very clear presentation of the gospel and it serves as an opportunity to start conversations about the importance of a relationship with Christ.

Most people have either experienced cancer or had someone close to them experience cancer.  This film is extremely applicable to the times in which we live. I would encourage you to see the movie and to encourage others to see it as well during this opening weekend.

This provides an opportunity for Christians to make a statement with our entertainment dollars. That does not happen very often. Not only will you be able to see a good film that will be a great asset in your witnessing conversations, you will also be able to send a message to the motion picture world about the type of entertainment we would like to see.  We cannot complain about what is out there if we are not willing to personally support that which puts Christianity in proper perspective.  This film serves as an opportunity on a number of levels. You will find the film to be powerful, challenging, and encouraging. I certainly hope that you will take advantage of this opportunity. You can find more information at the website www.letterstogodthemovie.com.