GENEROSITY AND THANKSGIVING
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God.
2 Corinthians 9:11-12 NLT
TODAY’S THOUGHT
Generosity releases thanksgiving! I believe this is a principle in our lives. As I reflect on my life, everyone who was a generous person was also a very thankful person. The two seem to always go together. I believe it is because having a thankful heart makes us want to be generous to others. When we are generous to others, we are giving them the opportunity to be thankful. I also believe the reverse is true—thanksgiving releases generosity! When we become thankful people, we become generous people. Instead of having a spirit of entitlement we can choose to be thankful for everything we have received and as a result we will want to be generous to others. Recently Cindy and I hosted an event to help people be introduced to Africa Oasis. This is an umbrella organization that works in compassion ministries across the continent of Africa. They train people in the African churches to be involved in compassion ministries—anything from clean water projects, education, women empowerment, and sustainable food sources. The purpose is twofold—to meet the practical needs of people and to open their hearts to the gospel of Jesus Christ. When people experience the tangible love of Jesus through a water well or water purification program, they become thankful and open their hearts to the Lord Jesus. This works not only in Africa but in America. When we give our time, talent, and treasure to serve others we cause them to open their hearts to the love of God. Seeing God’s love demonstrated through us allows them to have a new definition of God.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Holy Spirit help me to be an expression of Your love to my world. Forgive me for my selfish living. Thanks for all You have done for me. Help me to serve others so their needs are met, and they give thanks to You.
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