Thoughts for another day

February 10, 2007

Today's verse: Pro. 21:13. Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

The subject of giving is a matter of much debate. You have appeals from many for varied causes which are as different as chalk is, from cheese. We shall not justify or castigate anybody who asks, but let’s look at who the Lord wants us to give to. Your opinion may differ on what you read below and you are free to keep it; but what you read is the attitude the Lord favors. I myself, may not do it, but God’s Word doesn’t change.

When someone asks for something, the Word of God tells us to give. What you think of the person asking does not matter. What purpose he is asking for doesn’t matter God wants you to give. Yes, you read it right. God wants you to give. Even if you feel the person will go and gamble with that money, still you must give because he asked. Only check with God what you need to do in a situation when you feel strongly you shouldn't give. Reason out what Christ would do in that situation.

We are so parsimonious in giving, that we find so many reasons not to. Once an extremely old and poor lady came to me and asked for some money. As I was about to give, my friend told me not to give her as her son who is a drunkard would come and snatch it from her. Will my not giving that woman help her any bit? Many of you may not understand the spirit in which I am saying this, suffice it for me to tell you that we too ask the Lord for things that are meaningless and expect Him to give it us, right? So why do we find reasons not to give, when we know we need to. How can we expect God to give what we ask if we ourselves do not know how to give or feel that the need expressed by someone else is frivolous?

My friend, consider the poor, for believe me, was it not for the Grace of God, we would be one of them. The Word of God says today, that if we don’t listen to the cries of the poor, our own cries will not be heard. Behold, the Lord loves a cheerful giver and giving does not make us poorer; on the contrary, it makes us feel on the top of the world and of course richer. And it sure is a good feeling.