Opening the Gates of Heaven Perry Stone

giving. Those who have never experienced the joy of increase must evaluate their motives, attitudes, and hearts to see if there are openings where the enemy has entered and is devouring their blessings. T HE B LESSING S IDE OF G IVING When the church at Philippi gave an offering to assist Paul’s ministry, Paul told them that God would “supply all [their] need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19). The believers in Philippi were giving offerings to Paul to assist his missionary efforts. Paul told them that fruit “abounds to your account” (v. 17). This fruit was the souls Paul would win on his journeys that would be accredited to the church at Philippi at the judgment seat of Christ (2 Cor. 5:10). This is God’s cycle of blessing. As you plant into the soil of ministry, knowing the promise of the Word in your heart, God will honor your gift by producing spiritual fruit for your heavenly account. He also blesses you with increase to continue being a blessing. My wife and I have seen this principle not only with money but also with other items we have given. Throughout our marriage the Lord has directed my wife or me to assist a personal friend in need. We have given away furniture from our house, a few vehicles, clothes, food, and other items of importance. In each case, within a few weeks or months we have received an unexpected blessing. We could relate the blessing back to an act of obedience. Not once have we ever given and said, “We