Lent Day 26, Sunday, Mar 14, 2021

“I’m Generous…To a Point”

Most of us are financially Generous.  Taking the time to read these devotions is an indication that we both understand and practice Generosity in some form or fashion.  We can be Generous to family and friends, charitable organizations, churches, social causes, and people holding signs on the street corner.  But where does our generosity stop?  What is our limit?  Aren’t we all Generous…to a point?

Since all of us are already somewhat Generous, today’s focus is not a request to write another check to the Church.  Rather, today’s challenge is to prayerfully consider two questions:

First, why do we give?  Do we give for notoriety or because we want something in return?  Do we give to seize or maintain control of an individual or organization?  Or, do we give simply because we recognize a need and feel blessed to help?

Second, why (not where) do we draw the line in our generosity?  Do we stop giving because we don’t see results from our efforts?  Does someone else (like a spouse, family member, accountant, or other professional) instruct us to stop giving?  Or, do we stop giving because we don’t agree with the ways that the person, church, or organization might use the money?

Rest easy and take a breath.  Today’s Challenge is not to feel guilty.  Rather, today’s Challenge is to spend some time thinking about our Generosity.  Why do we give and why do we stop giving?  There’s no wrong answer… that is, unless we know that God is urging us to do more and we’re still saying, “No.”.

“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! “  (Malachi 3:10, NLT).