Do You Give, Generously? (Part 2)

by Annette Schwab
(Cincinnati, Ohio, USA)

Let us now take a look at our family and how well we give to them. I am not really talking essentials like food on the table but what I am talking about is things like practical expressions of love, encouragement, grace and even forgiveness when they make mistakes.

II Corinthians 9:6-7, "(Remember) this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously (that blessings may come to someone) will also reap generously and with blessings."

"Let each one (give) as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or do without) a cheerful (joyful, "prompt to do it") giver (whose heart is in his giving)."

Giving is not just related to money. There are many ways to give. As Christians, God wants us to be creatively generous with all of the resources he has given us. God wants us to be faithful with those things he has entrusted to us.

Are we providing our family a home free from contention? When I talk about contention, I am not talking about controlling other peoples behaviors but I am talking about self-control, or controlling our own selfish desires. Are we making a big deal about everything, do we always have to have things our own way? Can we sometimes defer to the other person? Do we always have to be right or have the last word?

Sometimes things are better left unsaid. We do not have to tell our husband and kids everything they are doing wrong. Sometimes we can just correct the mistake or problem and not mention a word because God does not correct us on everything we are doing wrong. If He did, we could become overwhelmed pretty quickly.

I am learning to give more freely. Sometimes that means being patient with those I love. Giving my time or a listening ear to someone even when I don't feel like it. Offering encouragement when I may be a little discouraged. Basically I am learning to try to be the hands and feet of Jesus in a world that is desperately in need of His love.

Questions to ponder:
What ways could you make a difference in the world around you?
What ways could you be more patient with your husband and children?
What steps could you take toward being a better giver?

Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus, please forgive me for all the times I have not been generous. Please help me be a better giver and represent you in all I say and do. As you have freely given to me, may I freely give to others.

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