A duty to surrender everything
“For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?” (NIV) 1 Corinthians 4:7
1 Corinthians 4:7 is a powerful reminder to many Christians who glorify themselves and claim superiority over others because of their possessions or status in the church/society. The situation of such Christians is similar to the case in the Corinth church of old where many were boasting in the apostles who baptized them to the neglect and contempt of others. The Apostle Paul wrote the verse to help them understand that whatever good they have received is from God (not man), therefore, they should not glorify in themselves or in their ministers but in God who has distinguished them by His favours.
The same response goes to us, Christians of nowadays. We have no reason to proud ourselves in the things we have. All that we have and is good is owing to the grace of God. Therefore, we have to share, especially with our fellow Christians. Sometimes, we do not give because we think we will go in need. There are times too when we want to have all to ourselves. In both cases, we can do better by trusting in the Provider (God) and obeying Him fully.
Yes, we have a duty, a duty to surrender our time, money, whole being and all that makes us to support the work of the Lord. May the grace of the Lord continue to be with us.