Saturday - 2nd Chronicles 31 - Heaps

In the days of Hezekiah, the people gave extravagantly (like later in Acts).  On the heels of a national revival, the generosity of God's people became nearly overwhelming.  After they had destroyed the paraphernalia associated with their vices, they began to tithe and to sacrifice offerings to God.  It started with the king setting an example of good stewardship (2^nd Chronicles 31:3).  Then Hezekiah went on to instruct the people to give to the priests and Levites "that they might be encouraged in the law of the Lord" (2^nd Chronicles 31:4).

Notice the reference to the "heaps" of gifts which were given to the servants of the Lord (2^nd Chronicles 31:6, 7, 8, 9 & 10).  Even though Hezekiah had commanded the contributions in general, the "freewill offerings" of the people far exceeded the need that was present at the temple (2^nd Chronicles 31:14 & 10).  And, no wonder.  The king was doing "that which was good and right and truth" - and he was doing it "with all his heart" (2^nd Chronicles 31:20 & 21).  His generous energy was gloriously infectious.  This should remind us that God loves cheerful generosity.  And obviously, cheerful generosity can catch on and spread.  So, let’s give generously and cheerfully.