Generosity

 

After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 1 Timothy 6:7

Their fatigue and discomfort blended with the barren landscape as the group walked through the dirt streets. Trash littered what could hardly be considered front yards. This arid area of Choluteca known as “The New City” exists in denial of its name. Unclothed children, wild dogs, and a few large pigs ran through the streets with little purpose or focus beyond survival. For the mission team members, accustomed to green grass and a ready source of  water, this view of Honduras was a stark reminder of their ultimate purpose to proclaim that Jesus gives new life found in wells that never run dry.

The suffering of others often eludes our glance because we’re caught up in the pace of everyday life. Surrounded by deadlines, family issues, and various trials, we are easily drawn into self-centered living. Our hearts aren’t hard; they’re distracted by the noisy, consuming world in which we live.

Warning against self-absorption, Paul teaches that contentment is not a circumstantial condition. Satisfaction comes only as we position ourselves to be consumed with nothing but God (Matthew 5:6). In reminding us of our temporary stay, Paul writes, “We brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it” (1 Timothy 6:7).

God doesn’t want us to live feeling guilty for the blessings and material things we’ve been given. He does challenge us, however, to live with both His justice and His mercy in view (Micah 6:8). When we “walk humbly with our God” and live toward this end, what we possess becomes a means for the advancement of His kingdom (Matthew 14:15-21).

Whether we sit in need or in abundance, we must regularly assess if our time, money, and energy are being used for what is everlasting or for what will never satisfy (Isaiah 55:1-2).

 

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him”

(2 Corinthians 2:14, NIV)

TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria

Are you facing challenges or difficulties today? Maybe something has happened that could easily discourage you and cause you to give up on your dreams. I want to remind you today that where you are is not where you are going to stay. God has a good plan in store for your future. When you stay in step with Him, you’ll walk right into victory.

Scripture tells us that God wants to take us from glory to glory, from victory to victory. Even if you are between victories right now, keep your passion. Keep your enthusiasm. Focus on the fact that God has another level for you — another level of glory, another level of increase, another level of His favor.

Today I encourage you, go out with a smile on your face. Give Him your best. When you thank God for what He has done, you are sowing a seed that He will use in your future. Keep praying, keep believing, keep hoping and stand strong because another victory is coming your way!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father God, right now I choose to focus my mind and heart completely on You. I choose to step out of discouragement, step out of complacency, step out of worry, and step in to Your glory. You alone are worthy, and I thank You for the victory You have in store for my future in Jesus’ name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen