Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Sharing God’s Gift with Joy

Bible Reading: : Malachi 3:6–10

Key verse:  10

“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in my house… and see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you an overflowing blessing.”
— Malachi 3:10 (NRSV)

DEVOTION

Malachi reminds God’s people that faithful giving is an act of worship rooted in gratitude. The call to bring the tithe was not merely about supporting the temple; it was about recognizing that everything belongs to God. Through this passage, God invites His people to trust Him wholeheartedly and to participate in His mission by sharing His gifts with joy.
In the Mar Thoma tradition, stewardship is understood as a faithful response to God’s grace. We do not give to earn God’s favor; rather, we give because we have already received His abundant love and mercy through Christ. As the Apostle Paul teaches, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Joyful giving reflects a heart transformed by God’s generosity.
The church becomes a channel of God’s blessing when its members offer their time, talents, and resources for the service of others. As theologian John Stott wrote, “Christian giving is a grace, not a duty.”When we share what God has given us, we participate in His work of justice, compassion, and witness in the world.
God’s promise in Malachi is not a guarantee of material prosperity, but an assurance of His faithfulness. True stewardship grows from trust in God’s provision and a desire to advance His kingdom. Every act of giving, big or small, becomes a testimony of faith when offered with a willing heart. As we joyfully share God’s gifts, we reflect Christ’s love and become instruments of blessing in our families, churches, and communities.

PRAYER

Gracious God, help us to share Your gifts with thankful and joyful hearts. Teach us to trust You and serve others faithfully. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Thought for the DAY

Joyful stewardship begins when we recognize that all we have is God’s gift entrusted to our care.

Mrs. Jency Philip
Mar Thoma Church of Dallas, Farmers Branch

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