This seems counterintuitive. Like many principles in the Kingdom of God that Jesus described, it seems opposite of what experience, culture, and human nature tells me. He said things like the first shall be last, love your enemies, and it’s really hard for a wealthy person to get into heaven.
Generosity is one of those things. How can I have what I need if I give a generous portion of it away?
In the example of water, for example. I live in a hot and dry desert. A simple walk down the street can be a thirsty affair. Water is a precious commodity, especially when you lack it.
Imagine you are hiking in the remote scrubland, lugging enough water for your planned expedition, when you come across another hiker who hadn’t planned well and is out of water. They are relieved to see you. The sun is beating down without a cloud or a shade tree in sight. The thirsty hiker has another couple of miles to go before they reach the trailhead. Would you give them some of your water? A sip? Or would you give generously?
A sip wouldn’t require much sacrifice on your part so you might agree to that. But giving generously would require you to change your plans. You would have to cut your hike short to account for your diminished supply. Your whole day’s complexion is altered.
It’s at this point you have to decide whether you trust God.
God says if I give generously, I will be enriched.
God is very creative in the ways He chooses to enrich His generous givers. In the scenario above, He might suddenly send cool clouds to the situation after I share my water generously with the stranger, allowing me to continue my hike after all. Or maybe since I am forced to turn back, I end up hiking with the stranger and forge a valuable, lasting friendship. Or perhaps my car is dead when we return to the trailhead, and this stranger is able to give me a jump or a ride or make a call for me because my phone has no service. There is no telling how God plans to bless my generosity.
And if I only offered a measly sip, or nothing at all, I would never find out.
Dear God,
Thank you for your beautiful promise to reward generosity. What a wonderful world this kind of behavior could create! Your wisdom is so refreshing and delightful. Teach me the joys of giving generously. I’m sorry when I fail because of selfishness or fear. I know I can trust you. Keep reminding me!
CamDevo 