How does 1 Chronicles 29:7 inspire sacrificial giving in our lives today? Setting the Scene 1 Chronicles 29:7 — “They gave toward the work on the house of God: five thousand talents and ten thousand darics of gold, ten thousand talents of silver, eighteen thousand talents of bronze, and one hundred thousand talents of iron.” What Their Giving Shows - More than 190 metric tons of gold and 340 metric tons of silver—an enormous, voluntary offering. - Given before the temple existed, proving faith beyond sight (Hebrews 11:1). - Leaders went first (1 Chronicles 29:6), then the people followed (v. 9). Principles That Still Speak - God receives our best, not our leftovers (Proverbs 3:9). - Sacrifice is measured by cost to the giver, not the size of the gift (Luke 21:1-4). - Joy accompanies wholehearted generosity (1 Chronicles 29:9; 2 Corinthians 9:7). - Corporate vision fuels personal sacrifice; shared mission multiplies impact (Philippians 1:5). Ways to Practice Sacrificial Giving Today - Give first, then live on the rest—make God the opening line of the budget, not the last. - Choose one comfort to release (streaming service, dining out) and redirect those funds to gospel work. - Schedule periodic “inventory days” to donate unused possessions (Acts 4:34-35). - Invest hours as well as dollars—teach, serve, mentor, visit (Romans 12:1). - Lead by example in the home; let children see and celebrate generosity (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Encouragement for Obedience - “Give, and it will be given to you…” (Luke 6:38). - “Whoever sows generously will also reap generously” (2 Corinthians 9:6). - The joy of the Lord filled the assembly when they gave (1 Chronicles 29:9); the same joy fills hearts today when we mirror their faith. |