During the Christmas season, we all struggle with the question of “what to give” and “to who” and “how much”. This year more than ever when each of us has felt at least a portion of the economic decline this country is facing, there are greater “needs” than there are “wants”! While the pressure of yesteryear may have been to shower loved ones with gifts to make them happy, there are so many around us that have “necessities” that the dilemma we face may be even greater.
First, we have to know that we can’t solve all of even any one person’s problems. But God can. Our prayers and supplications offered unto the Lord in behalf of those in need can go much farther than our bank account. (This is even true with our children – one of the hardest things a parent has to deal with, no matter how old the children are.)
Second, it is safe to say that we need to question our decisions as to whether we are giving as God would have us give, or are we bowing to the emotional need to give to alleviate pain, something that will only render a temporary fix. There are so many complexities in giving, but as always the scripture addresses this in clear and simple terms. Today we are going to look at 2 Corinthians 9: 6-11:
6[Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings.
7Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving].
8And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation].
9As it is written, He [the benevolent person] scatters abroad; He gives to the poor; His deeds of justice and goodness and kindness and benevolence will go on and endure forever!
10And [God] Who provides seed for the sower and bread for eating will also provide and multiply your [resources for] sowing and increase the fruits of your righteousness [which manifests itself in active goodness, kindness, and charity].
11Thus you will be enriched in all things and in every way, so that you can be generous, and [your generosity as it is] administered by us will bring forth thanksgiving to God.
God is interested in our giving, wants us to give, will bless us if we give – and there is indication here that we all have something to give. This scripture is in response to giving to the poor…More on this tomorrow…
Kairos,
Maria