Daily Power #346

Then the people rejoiced because they had offered so willingly, for they made their offering to the LORD with a whole heart. (1 Chron. 29:9 NASB)

Recently I met a couple at church who told me how God had changed their heart about giving. They had always been faithful to tithe 10 percent of what God blessed them with, but gave only occasionally above their tithe. As they grew in their relationship with Christ, they realized that God was calling them to a more intentionally generous life.

Though they didn’t have much extra to give, they agreed they could easily spare twenty dollars each month to give to someone in need. The first month was an easy decision. When an F-4 tornado took out several neighborhoods in their community, this couple immediately agreed to give their first twenty dollars to help those impacted.

The next month, they were in line at a grocery store. The lady in front of them was obviously embarrassed when her government assistance and small wad of cash didn’t cover the $$4803 total of basic necessities that she was attempting to purchase. Seizing this opportunity to be a blessing, the couple humbly offered to help. The next month they gave to help someone go on a missions trip.

Month after month, the blessing stories mounted. Now two years later, this couple has grown their monthly offering to two hundred dollars a month. Not only do they not miss the money, but they would never miss the opportunity to be a blessing.

When you open your heart to God, he will help you to grow in generosity.

Power Lift

Lord, use the generosity of others to inspire in me a desire to give more. Show me where I can meet the needs of those around me.