Luke
6:38
Give, and it will be given to you. A
good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured
into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (NIV)
Giving
My car was in the shop for 3 weeks due
to a deer hitting it. When I went to
pay, I expected to pay all my deductible plus the part my insurance
declined. I was so surprised when the
shop said my deductible was $100 less and they would take care of the insurance
difference. This is a perfect example of
God using people to give to those who are faithful in giving. Our tithe always came first before any bills
or other expenses. Then there were the
love offerings as God would lead us to give to others. It is a joy to be a giver. It is even nice when you unexpectedly
receive. But whether you are the giver
or the receiver, it is all through God’s loving hand. However, we must be careful not to use the
above verse in a self-centered way, giving to receive. That is a prosperity message believed and
tooted by many misguided people. The
reason we give is not to get back but for the real joy of God using us to bless
someone else. Let’s always be open to receiving
that joy and also be open to being the recipient for others receiving the joy
of giving.
