The Gift of Giving - Hope for the Holidays Lesson 1

16 For God so loved the world that He GAVE His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 6Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; 7or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; 8he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who GIVES, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:6-8 v. 6 – “Prophecy” - You declare an insight of the Holy Spirit resulting in edification, exhortation and comfort to others (1 Cor. 14:3). v. 7 – “Ministry” (Serving/Helps) – Enjoy meeting needs on a practical basis. v. 7 – “Teaching” – Enjoy searching out and presenting Scriptural truths. v. 8 – “Exhortation” (Encouragement) – admonishes and encourages others (Barnabas) v. 8 – “Giving” – Enjoys meeting material needs, often through finances (Barnabas) v. 8 - “Leading” (Administration) – Effective in organizing and leading others in a task. v. 8 – “Mercy” – Empathize and show compassion to others. 9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. 10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; 11 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; 13 distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:9-15 NKJV #1. God Can Use People You Don’t Know To Bless You. #2. God Can Take Care Of Your Tomorrow’s. Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” Matthew 2:1-2 #3. God Can Override The Systems Of This Universe To Get You The Help You Need!