[Kainos] Joy of Generosityಮಾದರಿ

Giving Intentionally

This past week, we received a gift of two dollars in cash. The card with the gift said: “Homeless, trusting You, Lord, to provide like only You can! Help me keep my eyes on the one true God, not on my problems, in Jesus’ name!” Wow! It was such an encouragement to me.

I shared this story at the first service. After that, a woman came and said, “I’m the lady that gave you that note.” I gave her a hug. She had no clue that I was going to share about her gift. And I said to her, “You know what? Your two dollars may be an inspiration to others to give literally millions of dollars.” I want you and me to give as joyfully as she did. She gave what she had. It reminded me of Jesus’ story of the widow who gave all she had to live on.

The first step is to make an initial gift. Those of you who do not give to God’s work through the church: get this, right now, and you will find great blessings in your life. Becoming an initial giver is a courageous, exciting first step. It is hard to do.

The second step is to become an intentional giver, where you plan and prioritize your giving. This is where you say, “I get paid twice a month. I’ll give a percentage out of that.” Kelly and I receive great blessings from tithing and giving. When we first got married, I remember paying bills and thinking we could barely give, but God provided for us in an amazing way. We must be intentional. To have financial freedom, give, save, and then spend. When you flip it around and spend, save, and then give, you’ll never know financial freedom.

I know some folks say, “I don’t want to commit to giving or be so rigid about it all.” But you are willing to sign a commitment for your mortgage or rent, your cell phone, your cable TV. Say before the Lord, “You’ve got me, God. I’ll trust You. Lay something in my heart, and we will get it done for Your Kingdom.” You know exactly what you need to be doing. Jump in. Go forward. Trust God. Let Him do His work in you.

Lord, as You provide, instill in me the desire to give to You freely.