the overflow

Have you ever had an overflow in your life?  It seems like we never have enough money or enough time.  But there are times we find ourselves with overflow in lots of areas.  What to do with the overflow is the question.

 

I recently read a book and heard someone else talk about the idea of an "income ceiling" where you set for yourself what it takes for you to live, and whatever comes in over that is used for other things (like giving or savings or special projects and such).

 

Last night I was sitting around a table in a remote location of our county listening to about 10 people share their heart for where God is leading our church family.  We believe some of the things we have dreamed of and talked about are going to come true before we know it.  I am first of all talking about The Dream Center and a shelter here in our community.

 

God's desire for us is more than our desire for us.  We can say that personally and as a church.  It is all about serving Him.  And as we serve Him we are serving hurting people around us that need the hope that only Jesus gives and who need to be filled with dreams from God.

 

Ephesians 3:20 (NLT) --- Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.

 

Our God is able.  He can do more than we can do on our own.  Look that verse real close.  He can do more than we can ask or think or dream or simply do by ourselves or as a group without His help.

 

As I watch the people I am blessed to serve with, the overflow is amazing.  The people who are beginning to serve amaze and humble me.  Like the couple that came Saturday night to help us feed the hungry.  She has been coming to church a few weeks, and he had never been.  Like the little girl that handed out deserts for almost 2 hours that night.  I am amazed at how people begin to give of themselves when they are challenged to give and serve.

 

2 Corinthians 8:5 (NIV) --- And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will.

 

If we challenge people, they will step up.  If we trust God and expect Him to move, He will move in bigger ways than we have seen before or dreamed of.

 

What are you going to do with the overflow?  It is tax season.  Are you going to give out of the extra?  I believe that would not only honor God, but God expects us to give out of the overflow as well.  What are you going to do with the extra time you have because of being laid off of work or because of that canceled trip or event?

 

Do something with the overflow that God brings into your life.  Then watch God work.  He will bless you.  He will use you.  It is at that point that God will bring even more overflow our way!