Sometimes I get a little behind on
inputting our finances into the computer.
We (I) like to keep track: of all our expenses to see where we spend our
money, our accounts, and bill paying.
All the finances are left on my shoulders and that’s okay because the
Lord has given me talents in that area and most of the time I enjoy working the
numbers. Though I consider myself fairly
generous in life it becomes more difficult to give when you see the bank
accounts dwindled down, the money flying out the door for two ‘new to us’
vehicles, a bathroom in severe need of major fixing and knowing the roof plus needs
to be redone.
There are four large trees that need
removing and a bathroom wall with a gaping hole which might have to wait
another year. In other words, there are
many projects we’ve put off due to 3 ½ years layoff that we’ve not recovered
from even with about two years back to work.
With all these needs, you’d think we aren’t able to be generous. Truthfully, I do let it hold me back
sometimes. I still see the numbers, but
hubby sees other’s needs. He doesn’t let
our needs stop him.
Some of the most generous people I know
don’t have a dime to give away. Instead
of cash, they give of their time in help, making things, support, finding
deals, fixing things, teaching skills, etc.
Peter displayed this kind of generosity at the Temple ,
“…Silver and gold have I none, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus
Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” (Ac. 3:6) I bet that man was very happy to have use of
his legs over a bit of money- he could make a living again!
“…It is more
blessed to give than to receive.” Ac. 20:35
Give*, and it shall
be given to you, good measure pressed down and shaken together and running
over, they shall give into your bosom. For with the same measure that you
measure, it shall be measured to you again. Lk.
One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he
should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched,
and one who waters will himself be watered. Pr. 11:24,25 ESV
There are so many Scriptures concerning generosity, but those above are
a good sampling. The idea is that God
meets our needs, so we should be helping to meet the needs of others. Do we need to have money in the bank when
others are in need? Yes, I guess that
would be nice, but not necessary. That money in the bank doesn’t go to Heaven
with me, but it can help someone find Heaven through me.
Does it give God more glory by
generously giving or by hoarding to ourselves?
If we are to follow Jesus’ example, did He give generously or was He
concerned with His own needs? Did He focus
on making sure His house was fixed, He had enough food, had money in the bank,
or did He concern Himself with others’ needs?
We know that answer. Jesus was
always most concerned about others. Are
we not to be like Him?
"…whatever you do, do all to the
glory of God."
1Cr. 10:31
Are our generous hearts showing
the glory of God in our lives or are the world’s attitudes on self stifling
God’s glory?
Let everything we do bring
Him glory…