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Giving With Joy

Weekly Thought – May 9, 2017

Fred’s generosity covered financial support, but also the use of wisdom, time, and presence. His thoughts on giving were often sought by those who wanted to be good stewards. His ability to “sit loose to things” (a phrase he gleaned from Oswald Chambers) allowed him to give with great freedom.

Thank you for your ongoing support as BWFLI continues to impact Christian college and university campuses. Since our first event in 2008 we have brought 16 teams in contact with over 15,000 students. Your continued friendship through prayer and financial giving is greatly appreciated.

Giving With Joy

Money is an important scriptural concern. It shapes life in America as much or more than any other single item.

Here are several principles to consider for personal giving and also while leading others to give with integrity.

1) Giving may be harder than earning. A lifestyle of giving away money may be both difficult and dangerous. I say difficult because profitable stewardship requires a new and often more difficult discipline than making the money. It is dangerous because many temptations confront those with money to give.

2) Giving must move from duty to joy. The sheer administrative monotony of philanthropy can steal the joy. Administration is constant and often kills the delight. Freedom comes in crossing the line from duty to joy. Theologically, freedom comes in moving from works to grace.

3) Generous giving is a lifestyle. This involves more than the money or appreciated assets, techniques, or programs. It involves our spiritual maturity. How often am I willing to pray, “Lord, prosper me financially in proportion to my spiritual maturity?” What a snare if we try to bribe God with financial gifts to rationalize our failure to offer Him our spiritual gifts.

4) Motive is imperative. Biblical wisdom tells us “Out of the heart are the issues of life.” In the New Testament the story of Ananias and Sapphira warns us of wrong motives. As you remember, they claimed to donate 100%, but in actually held some back for themselves. They were greedy for credit and it cost them their lives. Their sin wasn’t in the reduced gift – it was the increased greed.

Obedient giving is not to obligate God, but to follow Him. We need to give – He doesn’t need the money. The glory which accrues to Him is the goal – along with our maturity.

This week think about: 1) How serious am I about my giving? 2) When I consider my stewardship do I just think about money? 3) What will increase my joy in giving?

Words of Wisdom: “Theologically, freedom comes in moving from works to grace.”

Wisdom from the Word: “And you, Solomon my son, obey the God of your father and serve him with a submissive attitude and a willing spirit, for the LORD examines all minds and understands every motive of one’s thoughts. If you seek him, he will let you find him, but if you abandon him, he will reject you permanently.” (1 Chronicles 28:9 NET Bible)

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