Many, especially in America, have been deprived by having everything handed to them on a silver platter. Having received everything they want without any effort they become like spoiled children. Raised in the lap of luxury, they know nothing about the value of a hard days work and are never satisfied, nor appreciative, for the things they have. This verse from the Old Testament reminds us of an important truth. J. R. Miller wrote:
Things we do through cost, self-denial, hardship, and hindrance are far dearer to us, and more sacred—than things we do with ease, without feeling the burden or the cost. Churches built by poor, struggling congregations, whose people have to sacrifice and deny themselves to gather the money, yield far more joy to their builders when finished—than beautiful and costly churches reared by the rich. They are built out of people’s hearts, and shine in heaven’s sight—in love’s splendor.
Our joy in doing God’s work, and in making gifts to God, is measured by the real cost of the things we do and give. The more heart’s blood there is in them—the more precious will they be to us and also to God. The richest treasures of our lives—are those which have cost us the most.”
