In East Africa, I’ve found that a little goes a long way. For example, my colleagues and I are able to help feed 20 children in Uganda for far less than it would cost to feed 20 children in the US.
I love giving and then seeing smiles spread across the faces of the ladies and children we serve in the sub-Sahara region. When I consider the joy I experience in helping others, I can’t help but recognize the reason I have much to share. I can minister to the Ugandan people because many people have given sacrificially to me.
As God meets my needs, says 2 Corinthians 9:8, I have everything I need and plenty left over to share with others. The apostle Paul adds, “For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you” (2 Corinthians 9:10). Both of these verses apply the “reap what you sow” principle to generosity. Just as planting seeds of righteousness yields a crop of love (Hosea 10:12) or planting seeds of peace reaps a harvest of righteousness (James 3:18), when you sow generosity you will reap a harvest of it.
Giving is something the Lord multiplies. He brings forth great returns on kindness and generosity. Unlike our economy and stock markets, God’s “giving” market consistently yields high interest.
Remember to practice Galatians 6:9-10: “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith.”
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Genesis 39:1-23
More:
A giving attitude is more important than the amount given. The person who can give only a small gift shouldn’t be embarrassed (see Mark 12:41-44).
Next:
Demonstrate thanks to God by giving a gift to someone in need today. How does a generous heart reflect the heart of God?
jessie1 on January 22, 2014 at 4:09 am
It is so true that giving is beneficial. People today are confused about what they “need” and what they “want”. I think if an individual, including myself, really sits down and thinks about what they require and make a list, the list would be shorter than expected. Due to some difficulties in my life, my families income was diminished somewhat. After the initial worrying about money issues, it started to become clear that we could get by if we sacrificed some of the luxuries we had enjoyed previously. I found that having too many distractions with the material things in life only dulls the senses towards what really matters in life. I also discovered that without said financial burdens, my wife and I could actually give a little more to our church. It gives me great joy to be able to contribute a more to our church, which does so many good things in our community. I truly thank the Lord for giving me this insight. I should also say that we benefit in so many more important ways nowadays.
tom felten on January 22, 2014 at 10:32 am
Roxanne, I was once again thanking a friend yesterday for the beautiful way he supported me and my family a few years ago as we went through a difficult medical journey. His words, time, and gifts meant so much in the journey. What’s more, his Christ-like example has inspired my wife and I to open our hearts and hands more willingly—sharing with others we know who are in need. And, as you mentioned, the blessings we’ve strived to offer have paled with the blessings we’ve received as we’ve given of our time and resources.
roxanne robbins on January 23, 2014 at 12:39 pm
Sorry I missed jumping in on this conversation yesterday but am encouraged today to read your meaningful and insightful comments Tom and Jessie. I truly appreciate the testimonies you shared of the joy we experience as we recognize the beautify of giving.
Winn Collier on January 28, 2014 at 8:06 pm
generosity is one of the fruits of the spirit that I believe most powerfully expresses God in our world. It’s blazing.