What Shall I Render?

We cannot expect to invest little in the Kingdom of God and get a great return. Much time is spent talking about financial abundance, but wealth extends far beyond material possessions. We must lay up treasures in heaven. The reason that we must examine our motives in ministry is so that we are not discouraged when we do not see an immediate earthly reward.

If we truly serve the Lord, He will indeed reward us. If we expect people to encourage us, give money to the ministry, and invite us to the most coveted events, then we will be sorely disapponted. Although these things may happen, we learn that true ministry includes suffering for the sake of the gospel.

If we find ourselves lacking in any area, we must begin to give where we are running low. Are there any ministries that we can send a word of encouragement to? Is there someone doing a mighty work that the Lord is prompting us to send a love gift to? Are we bypassing an opportunity to serve someone else and support the vision that the Lord has given them?

If we are in need of any of these things in our ministries today, then we must make it a point to give in these areas, not for the sake of getting, but for the blessing of giving. We should not expect the return to always come from the same people we give to. The Lord is a Rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Psalm 62:12 (NKJV)
Also to You, O Lord, belongs mercy; For You render to each one according to his work.

Proverbs 12:14 (NKJV)
A man will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth, and the recompense of a man’s hands will be rendered to him.

Matthew 7:2 (NKJV)
For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.

Luke 6:38 (NKJV)
Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”