Principles Of Giving

 THE OFFERING OF ABEL: PRINCIPLES OF GIVING. (Gen 4:4).

Abel gave a conscious offering; firstborn and the best of his flock. His offering was in accordance with (Eph 2:8-10). And he was vindicated. 

Below are the principles behind his offering:

1: He made God number one: "Firstlings" means first offering. Abel dedicated his offering to God; he set it apart (Ex 13:12). His offering was set aside to be offered to God with the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom.

2: He had faith (Heb11:4): You can't get God's approval without faith (Heb 11:6). God has no business with you, without your faith in Him. Faith is the first and sustained expression of your interest, and loyalty to God. If you believe, you will apply. Faith qualifies your sacrifice (Heb 11:4). Without faith, your sacrifice amounts to self righteousness (Sam 15:22).

3: He gave God Quality: Abel took his time to select the best for God. He gave of the fat thereof (Gen 4:4). Giving is not to be done ceremoniously; it must cost you something. Abel gave a quality, healthy and choicest offering. David also gave God something of value (2 Sam 24:24). 

4: He had a right attitude: God has put the WILL in the soul of man. We make our choices, but He gives us His word as a guide to make the right choices, (Deut 30:19). A configuration of the elements of choice, attitude and perspective, determines how God responds to your offering.

5: He was righteous: Your heart must be clean before your sacrifice is accepted. God accepts your person before accepting your offering. The condition of your heart precedes the acceptance or rejection of your offering. Abel was righteous and his offering was accepted (1Jn 3:12). The same thing with Noah (Gen 8:20-21). 

6: He had a willing heart: .No one forced  Abel to give to God. No one forced Solomon to slaughter a thousand bulls. Giving, devoid of love, is a waste (1Cor 13:3). God loves a cheerful giver.

Your sacrifice is not necessarily the money or other material things you give. Every of your actions should be a sacrifice, borne with a good intention. That is why you should be conscious of your daily living, as a life well lived, is a sacrifice (Rom 12:1). 

Apostle A LEE