“And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ””Acts of the Apostles 20:35 NLT
As a society in general we have got this understanding of giving generously down in certain areas. When it comes to natural disasters and injustice we are very generous people. We don’t always know what section of the population is actually giving, but we know that when things happen people around us give. This inherient desire to help others falls back on our basic setup to love one another. Some though lose this during their upbringing and become selfish, greedy and want nothing more then to be self serving.
This attitude of ‘why can’t they just help themselves’ has infected many people in the world today. It is my money I earned it I deserve it and why should I give it to someone else who may just burn it on unimportant things. We expect our kids to understand this principle when we spend hundreds if not thousand of dollars on them at Chrismas, yet do minimal for others. But the parents will keep admonishing their children that ‘it is better to give then to receive’. Honestly does the actions match the words?
What is the purpose behind this generosity, does it matter? It may, is the generosity meant to get noticed, to elevate yourself to a position of importance? Or are you giving to honestly help others, understanding that recognition isn’t always important? Do you give when in abundance only or when the need is required even if it hurts your bottom line? We must be wise in our giving, especially these days where people are working hard to scam money from anyone. It never hurts to investigate where your money is going if giving to an organization. It is harder to discern when giving to someone on the street or comes to you for help. For these you need to be trusting the Holy Spirit for wisdom and discernment, you will know what the appropriate course of action is. It may be wiser to buy them lunch or groceries then hand them cas, those moments will give you opportunity to connect and see how else you can help.
Whatever you do, however you do it let your motivation be the mission of sharing the love of Jesus with those in need. Change how you give.
Father, I know for me you have blessed me so much. I thank you for it. I will be obedient to your word and give generously to those in need. Let me see the need and act accordingly. I pray that my purpose for giving is missional and not selfish, give me wisdom in this. The people of this world matter to you so they matter to me. Amen
50 Days of Pray 