I may not see in front of me, But I can see for miles around when I look over my shoulder, and Lord, it`s clear. You`ve brought me here, So faithful every step of the way. What can I do but follow you, For You are the Way, the Truth, the Life, And You`ve promised never to leave me, My Savior, my friend, From beginning to end.
I Am Found In You
by
Steven Curtis Chapman
"You shall not steal." Exodus 20:15 NIV
The eighth commandment is not about cheating on your taxes. Oh sure, that is a sin, and this commandment applies here too, but if you limit God's instruction to theft of property, then you have diminished the word of God. (Nothing like starting out with a punch, heh?)
We are raising a society of takers! I go to my children's school and there are three parents at the office waiting for the principal so they can complain about their child not getting picked for an activity. I stand in the line at the grocery store and everyone is looking for the quickest line. No one is trying to let someone else through first. I go to an auction and two people bid against each other, and one argues when the other wins the bid. I see my competition in business walk the other side of the street rather than talk to me. Suddenly, because we are competitors, they assume we can't be friends. I push my kids to excell so that "I" can be proud.
I go to a little league baseball game and the worst sportsmen are the parents. I ask someone to do me a favor and they reply "What's in it for me?". I spend more time clipping coupons and shopping sales for the best bargains than I do planning how I can give to world missions. I save and save my money so that when I see someone in need......I can buy the latest big screen TV. I budget my tithe after I see if I can meet my current obligations. I never worry about issues of money until my wallet is affected. I give out of my wealth, never out of my poverty.
Any connection? Ring any bells? We have developed into a society that steals from each other. I know, you are a good, hard-working, tithing supporter of United Way. People comment on your generosity. You are a saint, aren't you?
Remember, Jesus looks beyond our actions straight to our heart. He considers our motivation. Let me ask you.....what does He see? Does He see a heart with no desire for personal gratification; looking out for a neighbor before yourself? Does He see someone who desires to give more than recieve?
My friend, I can't see your heart....only you and God can. Examine yourself today. Do you find, like I did, that you need to grow your heart in the area of giving?
You shall not steal! Become a GIVER today!
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