We know that giving to others, especially
those in need, is a good thing. But how often do we intentionally give to
attract blessings for ourselves? Isn’t that a bit selfish? Pastor Ben doesn’t
think so, and encourages us consider these four factors:
Factor 1: WHAT we give matters. “What a man sows is what he shall
reap.” (Galatians 6:7) Some givers attract curses and others attract blessings.
Pastor Ben says, “You don’t gather grape from mango tree.” What you want more of,
give the same, whether it’s love, respect, time, money, encouragement, etc.
Factor 2: Our MOTIVE matters. 2Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each of you should give what you have decided in
your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
Factor 3: The QUALITY
of our gift matters. In Malachi 1:8-9, God rebuked a priest for
offering a blind and crippled animal, a castoff that the priest probably didn’t
want for himself. Consider the quality of materials that Solomon used to build
the temple.
Factor 4: The QUANTITY
of our gift matters. 2 Corinthians 9:6 says, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly,
and whoever sows generously will
also reap generously.” Think of the widow in Mark 12:43 & 44 who gave a few
coins. Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put
more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out
of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
If you practice this radical generosity, Pastor Ben says, “You will be amazed at the blessings that follow. Try it
today and you will call me to testify.”
Let’s take the challenge. I’ll gladly give
you his phone number.
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