Share with the Needy

The Bible instructs us to have a good attitude when we give to the needy since that matters more than the act of giving. We are to give generously, cheerfully, sacrificially, secretly, and without expecting anything in return. One must care for the needy with an attitude of humility, as pride can envelop us the moment we consider ourselves more generous than others; people may admire us for our generosity, but God will detest us for being proud (Pro 16:5). All these principles, though self explanatory and easy to understand, are almost impossible to practice. The more we receive, the more miserly we become. We all know of the rich man who went away sad when Jesus asked him to sell all his possessions and give them to the poor and then to come and follow Him. (Mt 19:16-22)

Nowadays, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is an integral function in the corporate sector, and helping the underprivileged or contributing towards a social cause is a key focus area under this. A few years ago, we collaborated with a non-government organization (NGO) that worked towards employability of the physically challenged. We were able to employ a couple of trainees who were visually challenged, and we also did some database integration on their website on a pro bono basis. Sponsoring underprivileged children through a NGO and providing affordable mental healthcare through our own healthcare startup have been some of our other initiatives.

According to the new covenant, our quality of giving is valued more than the quantity. The poor widow’s offering was a pittance, yet it was taken notice of since she gave sacrificially (Mk 12:41-44). With the measure we use, it will be measured to us (Lk 6:38). We cannot be misers when God has given us all His riches. On the other hand, we cannot advertise our giving as hypocrites do (Mt 6:2, 3). We have to remember that God tests our motives, not just our actions. God keeps a record of every kind act of ours to the needy and will reward us.

‘You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.’ - John Bunyan.

Father, help me to share generously with those in need. Amen