October 16 | Acts 5:1-3

“Now a certain man named Ananias together with Sapphira, his wife, sold a piece of property and he withheld from the value, together with his wife’s knowledge, and brought part of it and laid it at the apostles’ feet. But Peter said, “Ananias, why did Satan fill your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit to withhold from the full value of the field?” (Acts 5:1–3)

Some people will do whatever it takes to get ahead. Even if it’s unethical, if they get away with it they have no problem. Other people cut corners. And many righteous people cry out, asking why these people get away with it. At least for now.

God loves a cheerful giver. But Ananias and Sapphira tried to “game the system.” They could’ve done whatever they wanted with the money. They could’ve kept it all and no one would say anything. They could’ve given part of it and no one would be bothered.

Joseph called Barnabas sold a field and brought the proceeds to help with the poor right before Ananias. He gave all of the proceeds. But Ananias kept some and made the same offering Joseph did.

Ananias and Sapphira’s sin was not only given part of the proceeds. It was lying to the Holy Spirit, giving an offering out of deceit. God knows your heart. He knows when you are being dishonest.

Action Step: Give to God honestly without deceit. Don’t try to look good in front of others. Your offering is for Jesus alone. He’s the only One you need to impress.

Jesus, my offering is for You. Keep my heart pure. Help me to ignore those around me and offer myself completely to You. I don’t care what everyone else thinks. I don’t want to lie to You or try to deceive You. I come to You as I am.