Silent Sacrifice Quiet Treasures

Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
- Matthew 6:1-4

Annie,

I have heard it said behind every good man is a good woman. Experience tells me that is true. I am on my third year of seminary with only two semesters to go. To say that is life is busy is an understatement at this moment in our family's life. School, work, ministry, and family all take time and much of it. Yet the joy of God's work is worth it. Still, I could not do it without you, the woman who stands with me.

It is true that many things done are for people to see, and in those actions man gains his reward. For some silent sacrifice stores up quietly gained treasures in eternity. For that you are a billionaire! I can not name the countless ways you have been my helpmate and fellow servant in Christ. Because of my calling and gifting I am usually in front, often leaving you in the background.

When I am at school you faithfully care for and teach our two boys, raising them in the admonition of the Lord. When I am ministering you are alongside serving whole-heartedly. When I am in need of help you come to my aid. When I am behind you pick up the slack. When I think of all the Lord has allowed me to be involved in, without you it is impossible.

To say that this ministry is mine alone is a prideful lie. I cannot keep pace with the ministry opportunities without your help and support. Behind this man is a good woman. May I remember the gift of grace God has granted to me in you, my wife and mother of my two sons. Your silent sacrifice will not go unrewarded as the treasures are silently stored in heaven without the notice of the world.

Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
- Proverbs 31:29-31

My love to you,
dave m