His generosity, our duty

2 Cor 9:6-11

⁶Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. ⁷Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver......... ¹¹You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

Jesus gave His all to us. Though it is God's mercy to mankind, Jesus fulfilled God's salvation plan through His generosity. One who is willing to sacrifice his life for another demonstrates the epitome of generosity.

We are duty-bound to our Savior to be generous.

Many of us, at some point in time, struggle with this notion and practice. We feel that we do not have enough and thus cannot be generous. Some say that they will give when they receive. But the bible tells us that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Proverbs 11:24-25 clearly say,

"²⁴ One man gives freely, yet gains even more;
another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.

²⁵ A generous man will prosper;
he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

I am thankful that my parents, parents-in-law were generous folks; always ready to help those in need. My wife still influences me deeply in her selfless giving. Over the years, I have learned precious lessons from them. Giving is about what comes from the heart and not the pocket. Giving is about compassion and love.

When we learn how to truly give, it will not be in monetary terms alone. Our time, our interest, our love become intertwined. We will have time to listen to someone's cry, we become interested in their struggle, our hands and heart extend to touch their hands and heart.

Giving is Christ-like!

We can be generous only if we can fully realize that God is our source. He is a never-ending source from whom we can draw from to give. What is needed is our faith that He indeed is our Provider and an obedient spirit to His prompting.

I learned from Oswald Chambers that "before God becomes satisfied with us, He will take everything of our so-called wealth, until we learn that He is our Source; learn to lavish the grace of God on others, generously giving of yourself. Be marked and identified with God’s nature, and His blessing will flow through you all the time."

It is indeed more blessed to give than to receive. It is our duty. Start today.

God bless.

Steven