Romans 12:8 ” …if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously.”

This time of year we are inundated with requests and pleas for donations.  They call on the phone, they mail us fliers, they approach us in public places.  All these overwhelming requests can turn anyone cold towards helping others…to the point of thinking, ” I can’t give, I can hardly get by with what I have!”   Paul addressed this in II Corinthians 8:2 –  where he explained even though the Church in Macedonia was going through severe trials and  extreme poverty,  their  joy of the Lord overflowed and welled up into rich generosity towards others.   God has proven over and over again that you can’t out give Him.  So allow  joy  and thankfulness to fill your heart this Holiday Season as you give generously to others…not out of your lack, but out of His riches.

II Corinthians 9:7 ” Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

As Believers we are called to be a generous people…and this was displayed vividly this morning in Church.  Our Pastor announced that as we left each family would be receiving a plain white envelope with cash inside ranging from $20- $100.  We were to consider this a starting point to bless others during this holiday season.  The Lord has called all of us  to be missional…reaching outside the Church walls to help others.  For we are to be His ambassadors… shining His light, expanding His Kingdom, and seeking to leave an eternal impact on our community and world. (A direct quote from the note enclosed in the envelope.)  As I hold this bill in my hand,  I know the Lord will not only direct us as to how much we are to add to it, but who we should bless with it.

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