A UK survey revealed that 96 percent of the generous donors surveyed gave to charity because they wanted to give back to society and tackle inequality. And 71 percent said they gave because of their faith.
Giving generously to those in need is central to being a believer in Jesus—something that reflects His heart. Our God, the defender of the poor and the oppressed (Psalm 12:5), told His people that He keeps a watchful eye on the orphans, widows, and foreigners—giving them justice, food, and clothing (Deuteronomy 10:18). He wanted them to be compassionate, to “not be hardhearted or tightfisted” but to “give generously . . . , not grudgingly, for the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do” (Deuteronomy 15:7,10).
When harvesting crops (Deuteronomy 24:19-21), the people were to provide food for the poor by leaving some behind so they could harvest it. God twice reminded them that they too were once poor. “Always remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord your God redeemed you from your slavery. . . . That is why I have given you this command” (Deuteronomy 24:18,22). God blessed them materially so that they could enjoy His good gifts. But they were to share them with those in need (Deuteronomy 14:28-29).
How are we living out the heart of God for those in need? Whether we have little or much, it’s our joy to pour out on others what He’s given, remembering that “those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, but helping the poor honors him.” And, “If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord—and he will repay you!” (Proverbs 14:31, 19:17).
May we give to those in need as God prompts us and provides, using us as conduits of His love and compassion.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Ruth 1:1-22
More:
Read 1 Timothy 6:17-19 to see Paul’s instruction in giving out of generosity prompted by full trust in God.
Next:
How has God provided for you and those you love? How can you more generously extend to others what He’s lavished on you?
Gary Shultz on March 15, 2017 at 5:46 am
Hi K.T. : You are absolutely correct, we need to give to others in need. This sounds like a simple command, and I think it was; however, the avenues to do this are many, and the need is great. We also have to examine the situation cautiously, if the need is not personally know or seen. Yeah, it becomes complex, at least for me. Then there is my part, how much do I need? Do I need an expensive vacation or some trendy gadget? Things start to get personal. Do I need that new roof on the house, the plumbing fixed. Do I open my heart before God and ask “how much”? How much do I need, how much do they need? I think that will be the test, lay it before the Lord and allow Him to speak to you. People that meet you on the street or the person holding the cardboard sign describing a need, what do we do? To me the question is not do we give, but where, when and why? I need wisdom, and still need to hold compassion. Thanks K.T.
sun9 on March 16, 2017 at 1:25 am
My same delima Gary Shultz. Sometimes it is hard to tell when it is the right time to give. I don’t have much, so if I give, it has to be useful or I loose. You know?