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?” Acts 5:3 NKJV
We read in scripture that those who believed in Jesus were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say any of the things he possessed were his own, but they had all things in common. They were united in their love for Christ and each other. The people of the early church shared everything they had with each other. They expressed their love for each other in practical ways. A man named Joses who was called Barnabas by the Apostles sold a piece of land. He brought all the money and laid it at the apostle’s feet for the work of the ministry. This is the first time Barnabas is mentioned in the bible. Selling the land and giving away the money contributes to his reputation and standing among the believers. He was respected and admired. He became a missionary an evangelist and leader in the church. A man and his wife also sold some property. They kept part of the money and gave the rest to the Apostles. They claimed they sold the property for less. They said they were giving everything from the sale to share with the disciples and support the ministry. Ananias and Sapphira lied to the Holy Spirit. They were confronted by the Apostles. They were given a chance to confess and repentant. When they continued in the lie they died. Ananias and Sapphira wanted what Barnabas had. They wanted the respect and admiration of the church. They wanted to be more involved in the ministry. They wanted authority and position. They were guilty of jealousy and coveting. Ananias and Sapphira wanted to do good things but their motives were wrong. God put Ananias and Sapphira in the church for a reason. The Lord may have had great things in store for them. They took matters into their own hands instead of waiting on the Lord. They resorted to deception instead of trusting God! God created you for greatness. Jesus wants you to wait for Him to open the doors you are to walk through. Jesus wants you to wait for Him to complete the work He wants to accomplish in you and through you. Jesus wants you to give Him glory for the good works He accomplishes through your service to God! When we step out ahead of the Lord we hinder the work God wants to accomplish in us and through us. Pray before stepping out in faith. Trust Jesus to complete the work He created you to complete in His Name! Trust Jesus to perform great and mighty works through your simple acts of faith in Him and obedience to Him! http://www.joyfor2day.com https://twitter.com/JoyFor2day #Joyfor2daydailydevotional
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