The Cost of Commitment

Some teenage girls who loved the Lord formed a “do without” club in order to raise money for missions.  They determined to add to their fund by sacrificial giving.  The majority, who were from well-to-do homes easily found ways to contribute.  But for one poor girl named Margie it was extremely difficult. 

One day she knelt by her bed and asked the Lord to show her something she could do without.  As she prayed, her pet dog licked her hands.  Suddenly she remembered that the family doctor had offered to buy him.  The tears came as she exclaimed, “O Brightie, I can’t think of parting with you!”  Then she thought of the words, ‘God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son.’  “I’ll do it!” she said. Going to the doctor’s home, she sold the dog for $50. 

Even though she missed her pet, she was still happy because she had been able to put all of the money into the mission fund.  The doctor was pleased with the dog, but he wondered if a pressing need had caused the girl to part with him, so he stopped by her house.  When he heard her story, he went home deep in thought.  In his life of abundance, he had never denied himself anything. 

The next morning Margie heard the dog scratching at the door.  This note from the doctor was fastened to her collar: “Your practical Christianity has done more for me than any sermon I’ve ever heard.  Last night I offered what’s left of my life to God.  I’d like to join your club and begin doing without Brightie.”

Jesus told the rich young man to “sell everything you have and give to the poor.”   We will never know how our obedience to this command in reference to our finances, time, and talents will touch countless lives.

  

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