Give

“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.” (2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV)

Sometimes we must make a decision to give quickly, but most of the time we have time to prayerfully decide to whom we will give and how much we will give.  As we pray, we need to ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten us and guide us.  We may be astonished by what we are prompted to give, but if we are faithful we will have the gift and then some. 

I believe that Jesus must have a special love for the homeless and disenfranchised.  They need water, food and shelter.  They need help to maintain a job for their livelihood.  Many don’t want help.  These men and women want to remain homeless.  They want money or food but no other help. 

Then there are those who don’t know what help is available.  Maybe we could create a list of clinics, shelters, food banks and places where these men and women can get job training and keep it with us along with small bags of water, food and needed sundries and give these out when a need arises.   Maybe having information about where help can be found will help them them turn their life around, and help them find direction and purpose.  Every person deserves to feel loved and needed.  Perhaps with new purpose some of these men and women will rediscover love around them and love for themselves. 

May we give generously, prayerfully and joyfully. 

Prayer:

Lord, help me give generously, prayerfully and joyfully.  You have given me so much and I am so grateful.  Help me to give as if I am giving to You and never seek anything in return.  Amen.