Daily Bible Reflections

July 20, 2011
SOUND INVESTMENT

“Part of it finally landed on good soil and yielded grain a hundred or sixty or thirtyfold.” – Matthew 13:8

When my dad moved to Singapore to work, he would regularly send money to my mom for all our needs. Included with that is his tithe or 10 percent of his salary to be given to our parish church or our charismatic community. He knew that the tithe belonged to the Lord.
It’s been almost 20 years since my dad retired. While many of his retired contemporaries are having financial difficulties, he is able to enjoy his retirement and still be generous to those in need. I believe this is because he faithfully set aside his tithe to invest in God’s Kingdom while he was still earning. Now, he’s reaping the benefits and it is God’s turn to take care of him.
John Avancini says in his book, Hundredfold, that only the seed sown on good ground can yield an abundant harvest. A true sign of a good-ground ministry is one that will vigorously attempt to accomplish the specific purpose God has given it. If that ministry diverts from their calling or embarks on a work of their choosing, then it ceases to be a good ground.
So, the next time you “invest” your tithe or love offering, be sure to discern if it’s a good ground or a stony path. Ronna Ledesma (ronnaledesma@email.com)
20
REFLECTION:
Only good ground produces an abundant harvest.

Father, I pray that all the people reading this daily devotional may invest in this “good ground” ministry so that more people may be reached with Your Good News.