2 Chronicles 31:5-6 “As soon as the order went out, the Israelites generously gave the firstfruits of their grain, new wine, olive oil and honey and all that the fields produced. They brought a great amount, a tithe of everything. The people of Israel and Judah who lived in the towns of Judah also brought a tithe of their herds and flocks and a tithe of the holy things dedicated to the LORD their God, and they piled them in heaps.”

This took place during the reign of godly King Hezekiah. The purpose was to engage in worship and support the ministry of the priests and Levites who had been ignored in recent years. The king also contributed generously out of his own assets.

Principle: God’s sources for financial rescue are limitless. He can stimulate action on our behalf from anywhere, at any time.

Be a godly donor and do it His way. Give proportionately, premeditatedly, promptly, and joyfully. The kingdom of God, your business, you, the community, and society will all benefit.

Oberline College was founded by missionary John Shepherd. Several years ago, the school found itself hurting financially. In 1833, Oberline had established a missions school in China and during the Boxer Rebellion six teachers from Oberlin had been killed. 100 years later, an anonymous donor who had been profoundly affected by those teachers willed $6 million dollars to the school in their memory. This was an out-of-the-blue gift for the school. The donor was unknown, the life and death of the teachers long forgotten. It was the largest gift the school had ever received. It was unexpected and the timing was perfect. It was a school-saving gift from God because of the efforts and influence of Godly, courageous teachers who had been faithful to their calling.

Discussion:

1. Have you ever been prompted by God to surprise somebody or some institution with a gift?

2. What prompted it? How was the opportunity brought to your attention?

3. What was the response of the benefactor?