Key Text: Acts 5:3 KJV - But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?

The believers in the early Church exhibited true love and selflessness. Many of them sold their houses and lands and brought the proceeds for distribution to the brethren according to their need. These believers were not forced to give: there was no announcement given to that effect but as they saw the need among them, they gave liberally to meet those needs.

Seeing the commendation enjoyed by Barnabas following his generous giving, a couple driven by envy also wanted the praise of the apostles. To gain recognition from the apostles, Ananias and Sapphira his wife sold their land and brought a certain part of the price to the apostles. They agreed together and created a false impression that they had brought the whole price, by laying it at the apostles' feet. They forgot that they were dealing with the Omniscient God.

There was no need for Ananias and Sapphira to lie. Their offering would have been accepted if they declared that they were only giving a part of the price for the work of God. The ungodly desire for praise led them to lie, thinking that they would receive less commendation if the apostles knew that they did not bring all the price. Brethren, you must never go into any evil alliance to sin against God. You are there to help your spouse get to heaven and not to support their sinful propositions.

Prayer: O Lord, may I never enter into any evil agreement to sin against you, in Jesus name. Amen.

Reflection: My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not - Proverbs 1:10.