"And Joses, who was also named Barnabas...having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet. But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain portion of it and laid it at the apostles' feet."
Acts 4:36-37; 5:1-2
Some people feel they have to "keep up with the Joneses." In this case, Ananias was trying to keep up with Joses. Perhaps Ananias heard the people whispering to each other, "Did you see what a wonderful thing Barnabas did?" He couldn't stand to be outdone, so he copied Barnabas. The difference was the heart of the matter. Barnabas was giving out of a pure motive in response to his heart, but Ananias was only trying to make a show, exaggerating his gift to make him look good. It is wrong to copy someone else's ministry if the motivation is wrong.
Today's Thought: Motive in ministry is important, whether giving or preaching.
Have a pure day. Love you.
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