When Peter said these words to the lame man that sat begging at the beautiful gate of the Temple, he and John did not have any money to give him. However, they did not use their lack of silver and gold as an excuse for doing nothing. Unfortunately, many Christians feel that since they are not able to do much, either for the poor or the church of the Lord, they end up just doing nothing.

This world would be a far different and better place if all gave as they have the ability to do. Let us look at some things we can give in service for the Lord.

TIME: One of the most valuable things that each of us has is time. It is also something that each of us has an equal amount of. Each one of us has 24 hours a day, seven days in every week. If you have the idea that you can spend all of your time from morning to night, in business, work or even pleasure and just a little time on Sunday mornings for the Lord and that be pleasing to God, you are sadly mistaken. Much can be accomplished in the helping of others and in the growth of the church of the Lord if we will just put some time into it. What is more important that it will keep us continually away from the work of the Lord?

MONEY: All of us can give of our means to the Lord as He has prospered us (1 Corinthians 16:2) and as we purpose in our hearts (2 Corinthians 9:7). In the Old Testament Scriptures, we read that often times God's people robbed him of that which was his due (Malachi 3:8-9). Today, many of God's people are doing the same thing. When we spend more for trivial and foolish things for ourselves than we give for the spread of the kingdom of God, we rob God. God will not hold us guiltless.

TALENTS: There is not one in the Lord's kingdom that does not have a talent or talents that can be used for the Lord. For each of us has been given according to his several ability (Matthew 25:15). Those who use their talents for the glory of God will find an eternal reward, but those who act as the unprofitable servant will be cast into "outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth" (Matthew 25:30).

A GODLY LIFE: A more powerful influence for good cannot be found than the example that is given by a goodly life (Titus 2:11-12; 1 Peter 1:15). Paul said, "Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ" (Philippians 1:27).

WORSHIP: Often times we look upon worship as a duty, but it is more than a duty, or should be to the child of God. Offering a sacrifice of praise and adoration to God should be a high and holy privilege for every Christian. Thus, we should say with David, "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord" (Psalm 122:1). This should be equally true, not only Sunday morning, but Sunday night and Wednesday night, and at any other time that the church meets. May we indeed give to our fellowman and to God such as we have.