Gifted To Give
Everywhere I look, I see the same message. Every song, every sermon, every blog post, every article seems to shout the subject of giving. Well, of course, you say! It’s Christmas! No, it’s November 1. Doses of Encouragement are written and submitted weeks ahead of time so our incredible staff—editor Betty and uploader Janice—can make sure they appear in your inbox on time!
As I’ve journeyed with the Lord for some thirty plus years now, I’ve noticed a pattern in His teaching style with me. First, there’s the Word from the Word approach; next, there’s the Word from everywhere else approach; and finally, there’s the Word from the woodshed approach. Personally, I’d like to get the lesson BEFORE going to the woodshed! Therefore, my ears perked up as soon as the subject of giving became obvious. Maybe yours will, too!
The Lord asked me questions like this: Do you embrace giving as an act of worship, obedience and faith? Or do you view it as generosity prompted by feelings of love, compassion or even obligation?
Think with me for a moment.
The problem with the second question is that feelings come and go with the wind! You’ve had it happen, I know! One minute you’re ready to open up the coffers and lavish your most treasured possessions on one of your children. The phone rings. They answer. They give you the cold shoulder and BAM! No special gift for you, Sweet Thing!
How grateful I am that God’s love isn’t withheld because we ignore, embarrass or even disappoint Him. He has lavished His love on us and His love is spelled G-I-V-E! You know the verse—“For God so loved the world that He GAVE … ” He gave His best: Jesus. And we’re never more like Jesus than when we are moved by His Spirit to meet other humans in their moments of need.
The Apostle Paul commends the churches of Macedonia because they gave beyond their ability, of their own accord, and out of their poverty (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). Why is it that we so often struggle to give out of our prosperity, yet they gave BEYOND their ability AND out of their poverty? That brings conviction to my heart.
Let’s not get so caught up in the merriment of this Christmas season that we miss real opportunities to respond to God’s indescribable gift through worship, obedience and demonstrative faith, which produce a wealth of generosity!
From my heart to yours,
Tami
Staying in tune with God can be difficult. Especially when we don’t hear anything.
Sometimes, God is silent. During those times, the temptation to change the channel is great. We want to remedy the situation ourselves: search in other directions, fill the dead air with the sound of our own voice or the voices of others, or simply “thump” in frustration.
As a child, I loved to pile my favorite dolls and stuffed animals into my little red wagon, plop myself in the middle of them, and charm my father into pulling me around. It was a lot more fun than pushing or pulling someone myself.
Him as I seek the answers I need. As I read in His Word of His marvelous works and His love for me, I’m reminded that my trials pale compared to His unmatched ability to carry my load and pull me through.
favorite pen, write away. After you pour out your heart, don’t forget to listen for God’s voice. Give Him time to speak. Pull out the Word or a cherished devotional. As you study, listen for key words that leap off the page, phrases that relate to what you’ve written, or a running theme. Above all, pay attention to the gentle tug of the Holy Spirit upon your heart. If you fail to get clarity or receive peace concerning your issue, continue daily to bring your petitions to God and trust in His timing.