Verse for the day:
Give generously … and do so without a grudging heart. (Deuteronomy 15:10)

Webster’s dictionary defines grudging as being unwilling to give. The first thought that comes to mind is a miser. I have visions of Scrooge from Dickens A Christmas Carol. Scrooge was an unlovable man who pinched every penny until it screamed and spent only what was necessary for a bare, cold existence. His idea of charity was a work house where the poor died more often than lived. There very thought of sharing his horded wealth with the working poor was so foreign to him that he got angry with anyone who even suggested the idea.

But you know, on close examination, I’m a grudging giver also. Oh I haven’t carried it to an art form like Scrooge, but I do begrudge my time, my money and my possessions, if it is inconvenient for me to give at that time. I suppose I can be every bit as selfish as Scrooge, and I don’t like the picture that creates in my mind.

This verse goes on to say that the Lord will bless you in all your work and in everything you do, if you will give generously and with an open hand to those in need. The verses here talk of food and money, but I think it also means our time, our attention and our talents. What about the little old lady down the street who has no one? Would she like a little bit of companionship occasionally? Could you take some rolls and coffee down to her and spend an hour listening to her tales? Or what about the little girl next door who could use a Grandma, or Grandpa, or big sister or brother or an aunt to listen to her after school stories because Mama has to work and won’t be home for another hour.

God expects us to give generously of ourselves to each other, to share our lives with each other, and he expects us to do it with a jubilant heart and a serene spirit. Do not worry about the cost. Never count the cost. For when you are doing the Lord’s work, he will bear the cost for you and return the blessing a hundredfold.

Father God, teach me to give generously and without a grudge. Show me how and where you want me to use my talents, gifts, time and money for your glory. Thank you Father for each of your blessings, and help me now to share freely what you have freely given. In Jesus Name. Amen.