Devotion:
Read Acts 5:1-10.
In the two verses before these, we read that a man named Joseph (the apostles of Jesus nicknamed him “Barnabas”) sold a field he owned and gave the money to the apostles. I am guessing that word about what he did spread to other people of the church. He was probably receiving praise from people for this act of generosity.
That very short story is followed by this story of a couple who also sold a piece of property. Maybe they also wanted the praise and gratitude of people in the church. They wanted to show they were devoted to God. But secretly, they also wanted to have the things of this world, particularly money. It seemed as if they could have both. But in order to have both, they would have to act deceptively. And when confronted about it, they would even have to lie. They were willing to do so.
Jesus taught that we cannot serve both God and money. It appears that Ananias and Sapphira tried to do that very thing. And it cost them their life. When you and I try to serve both God and money, it doesn’t always cost us our life in a sudden kind of way. It may be slow and it may be subtle, but it will cost you your life. Most importantly, it will cost you your relationship with God.
Do not let that happen! Make sure your priority is God. Always remember that resources are not for collecting, but for using to serve the needs of others and help them come to know Jesus Christ in their life.
Personal Worship Option:
Almost 150 years ago, Frances Havergal penned these words that became part of a hymn of the Church. Put them in your own words and let them be your prayer. “Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord, to thee. Take my moments and my days; let them flow in ceaseless praise…...Take my silver and my gold; not a mite would I withhold….Take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for thee.”
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