"One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty." This truth is found in Proverbs 11:24. But how can it be that a person who gives freely sees an increase while a person who holds onto his resources becomes poor? I think the key here is the word "withhold". There is a huge difference between saving and withholding. To withhold indicates that we see a need and choose not to fill it. God calls us to show His love through our generosity. Consider what is going on in the mind of a person who withholds. What might their motives be? Perhaps they think they might need what they have in the future, or maybe they question the integrity of the person in need, they may also feel too busy to help. No matter what the motive, when we follow the thought through we find the source to be one of two things - pride or greed. Neither conveys God's love or seizes an opportunity to advance His cause. Acts 20:35 states, "... we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' " More blessed...there is nothing wrong with receiving or earning or saving. However it is more blessed to give what you have received than it is to simply receive. What could you be giving? Time, prayer, emotional support? God works in so many ways. Financial giving is wonderful, but consider the relational benefits that come from giving of yourself. Let's take a look at Mark 10:44, "and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all." The word slave sounds pretty harsh. But when you really break it down, you can see that you are submitting yourself to the authority of God and carrying out the assignment that He has given to you. That assignment being service to others at no charge or compensation. Have you ever experienced selfless service from another person? In my life, there have been countless times that close friends bought groceries when I was in need, watched my children when I was unable to pay, listened to me discuss my hurts and then offered God centered advice. If you have experienced this type of selfless service then you know the amount of admiration, respect and awe that is felt for those who give simply because they love you. Becoming a slave out of love simply means you put another person first because you love them and you love God. God calls us to give and never withhold. After all, the bible says of God, "You treat us with kindness and with honor, never denying any good thing to those who live right." (Proverbs 84:11)
Originally Posted By Heather Portillo on January 10, 2014