Walmart is a funny place. I love it, though. As a consumer, how can you not appreciate quantity discounts? I was there late last night, jamming to U2's latest album, picking up boxes ... for today is moving/packing day at HM. We have a temporary storage POD in the driveway, which we'll load up and lock up. It then gets transported to our new location, where we can unload it later.
Reading in 2 Corinthians 9 one can't help but be reminded that God loves a cheerful giver. Paul has arranged for the church in Corinth, who volunteered to give generously to another church, to gather their collection early, so it will be ready when a group comes to deliver it. That way it's not a last minute thing where people feel under compulsion to give.
"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.* Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work."
Giving to the poor and needy not only is an obedience thing, but it is also a great testimony to those who do not believe. It is love in action, and can't be denied. I pray that I can develop into more of a generous person. I know that it's flat out rewarding to be that way, but my natural tendancy is to hold on instead of give away. I can remember an example of giving a gift to a friend. It was a little extravagant, but when I saw this thing we knew she would love it. Seeing the look of joy on her face when she received it was an awesome experience that, frankly, is something I'll probably never forget. I want to be able to do that more often. Just remembering that helps motivate me to be more generous.
There has undoubtedly been much abuse about money in the church, but that misuse does not take away from cool truth principles, like "You can't out-give God." It's fun and adventurous to take God at His Word and live like you really believe these principles* about giving.
Posted by Doug Van Pelt at January 13, 2006 08:41 AMGREAT message -- thanks.
May your moving day go perfectly -- and don't forget to keep your POD dry!