Day 20 - The Coin in the Fish’s Mouth
Money is a great mischief maker, even among believers.
As we serve Christ together, the need for financial resources is ever present. Billy Graham once said, “The gospel is free, but the bucket you carry it in costs money.†Never were truer words spoken.
A little incident took place in Matthew 17 that can clear things up for us—at least a bit. Jewish leaders wanted to know if Jesus and his followers paid the half-shekel tax that was required by the Old Testament law. (see Exodus 30:13,14) This tax was the equivalent of two days’ wages that was collected each year from every Jewish male over age twenty for the upkeep of the temple.
Jesus gave Peter a very unusual assignment. “…Go to the sea, cast in a hook, and take the fish that comes up first. And when you have opened its mouth, you will find a piece of money; take that and give it to them for Me and you.†(Matt. 17:27—New King James Version)
The Lord Jesus had a need, He gave a clear command, Peter obeyed, and God provided—in a miraculous and unexpected way!
Missionary Judson Taylor said, “God’s work, done God’s way, will not lack God’s supply.†What has Jesus commanded us to do? “…Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matt. 4:19) So if you’re concerned about the cash flow for the Kingdom, there’s one simple solution. It’s time to go fishing! If we are obedient, He will provide! It’s an unshakable principle of the Kingdom economy. The coin is in the fish’s mouth. Go Fish!
Today’s Scripture Promise: “And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.†(Philippians 4:19—English Standard Version)