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The Great Pretender
by PamFord Davis Why do people support a worthy cause? Why do they regularly give money to their favorite charities? There are a variety of reasons. Some give out of generosity with a heart full of compassion. Many give because they are compelled by others. Sadly, some give only to receive the recognition and praise of others. Any rewards they get are temporary. They settle for second best. "But a certain man named Ananias, with Saphira his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles' feet. But Peter said, Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God. Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things (Acts 5:1-5 NKJ)." Shortly after his wife also found her judgment and death. They tried to impress people. God is never caught by surprise. He knew their hearts; and they were only pretending to sacrifice the entire amount of their sale price. Published articles in Mature Living Magazine, Devotions for the Deaf, The Secret Place, Coosa Journal, Mary Hollingsworth's The One Year Devotional of Joy and Laughter, Jo Krueger's Every Day in God's Word. http://www.pamforddavis.com http://www.faithwriters.com/member-profile.php? Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com |