Appreciative Giving! (part 1 of 2)

Giving! When we do it we usually feel good, especially when we know what we have given is appreciated. We should recognize we are in a blessed position when we have something we can share with others whether that be of our money or our time. Someone has noted, “When it comes to giving, some people stop at nothing.” I know that is a bit of a twist on the expression to “stop at nothing”, but it is true that some people do stop before the giving even begins.

Note Solomon’s description of such a one.
“Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who BOASTS OF A GIFT HE DOES NOT GIVE.” ( Proverbs 25:14 ESV)

Some will eat up the attention given them when they boast of gifts they could give, but where is the benefit and blessing when there is no FOLLOW THROUGH? In such a case it appears the appreciation is in the attention received rather than in recognizing the blessing of having something to give. As Paul spoke to the Ephesian elders he quoted the Lord as having said, “It is MORE BLESSED TO GIVE than to receive.” ( Acts 20:35) Do we merely appreciate the attention others might give us or do we instead have a sincere appreciation for the fact we are blessed enough to have something to give?

In Paul’s second letter to the church at Corinth, he urged them to FOLLOW THROUGH in what they had earlier committed to give. ( 2 Corinthians 8:10-11) It appears that though we are the one to decide how much ( 2 Corinthians 9:7) the expectation is that we will give. May we experience the blessing the FOLLOW THROUGH of giving brings.

Have a great day PULLING THE STOPS OUT OF OUR GIVING!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Giving