Today's Passage: 2 Chronicles 23-24

These two chapters describe an interesting time in the life of Israel. They are always going through ups and downs, good leaders and bad leaders, times close to God and times far from God. I am always amazed at how many times Israel screws up and still God forgives them and brings them back into his arms.

In chapter 24, the author tells us about Joash. He becomes king at a young age and is a good king. He loves the Lord and does what he can to do right in His eyes. Joash decided to repair the temple of the Lord, but because the priests had been unfaithful, they did not have the money they needed to make the repairs. Joash knows just what to do and places a chest outside the gate of the temple for the officials and the people to put in their money. I was amazed at reading verse 10, which states that all the people brought their money and the chest was totally filled. Not only did the people bring their money but they did it gladly!

God was able to use their money to rebuild the temple the way it should be. The attitude of the people is always important in giving. During this season, we are all spending money on many different things: parties, gifts, dinners, vacations, charities, and the like. As a church, we have given to the troops. We have given food to the families in our neighborhoods that need it for Thanksgiving. God has used those gifts to bless other people during this time. We have so much, even if we do not feel like it. We are truly blessed! Please do not forget during this season to give to the Lord and to do it cheerfully!