Appreciative Giving! (part 2 of 2)

Yesterday we noted someone’s statement that “When it comes to giving, some people stop at nothing.” What stops us from giving at times? Is it that we feel we couldn’t do without? Could it be a lack of receptiveness to needs around us? Do we view others as undeserving? (Have we deserved the blessings of God?) Or is it a preference for giving only when it is noticed by others? WHOSE EYES do we want opened to what we give?

Note the attention Jesus stated should be sought.
“(1) BEWARE OF PRACTICING your righteousness before other people in order TO BE SEEN by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. (2) Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. (3) But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, (4) so that your giving may be in secret. And YOUR FATHER WHO SEES IN SECRET WILL REWARD YOU.” ( Matthew 6:1-4)

Perhaps we could put Jesus’ exhortation in terms of resisting the tendency to “blow our own horn” or “flashing the cash.” Jesus stated our giving is to be ultimately for the EYES OF GOD. He is also the One Who will reward us for what we have given. Is our attitude right? Do we give because we appreciate how much God has already given us? Even the smallest gifts -- such as a cup of water ( Matthew 10:42) -- that meet a need will not go without their reward.

Simply because others see or know about our giving will not negate our gift unless that is what our desire is all about. May our giving be a genuine display to God that we appreciate every blessing He has granted us. God appreciates and will take note of such giving.

Have a great day KNOWING WHAT GOD NOTICES AND REWARDS!
Carl

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