Family: Rejoicing in Giving

Family: Rejoicing in Giving

“Let each one give according to his own will, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Bible Reading of the Year: 1 Chronicles 25-27

In the 10th century, there is a story from the region of Cappadocia in Asia Minor about a simple Christian family living in the midst of a long famine. The father worked as a woodworker, while his wife wove cloth to meet the needs of the household. Their food supply is very limited. But one night, an old traveller knocked on the door of their house in a state of hunger and cold.

The family's children actually hoped that the last meal at home could be saved for tomorrow. But the mother said softly, “If God gives us the opportunity to share today, then God is also able to take care of tomorrow.” They then welcomed the wanderer with joy, giving him the last bread and a warm resting place.

The next day, their neighbours came with wheat and oil as a thank you because the family had been helping others selflessly. The family cried emotionally. They realise that the joy of giving never makes life poor, but rather opens the way for God's miraculous providence.

God's words in 2 Corinthians 9:7 affirm that God sees not only the amount of our gifts, but the heart behind them. Giving by force produces spiritual exhaustion, but giving with joy produces peace and a sense of sufficiency in God. In the Christian family, the culture of giving needs to be instilled not as a burden, but as a lifestyle of faith.

Today's world often teaches the principle of “keep as much as possible for yourself.” But the Kingdom of God works on a different principle: a hand that is open to giving will be filled by God's grace. True joy is not found when we receive more, but when we become channels of blessing to others.

There are three practical applications that Christian families can make, namely:

First, get used to giving together as a family. Involve the children when they make offerings, help people in need, or support the Lord's service. Thus, they learn that giving is part of worship.

Second, give not only money, but also time, attention, and love. Sometimes a person needs a listening ear more than just material help.

Third, learn to give with faith, not with fear. God is able to provide for the needs of families who live in obedience to Him.

A family that rejoices in giving will be a family filled with gratitude. For when we give with a willing heart, we are reflecting the character of Christ, who first gave His life for us.

Prayer:

Loving God, teach our family to have a generous heart and be full of joy in giving. Keep us away from selfishness and the love of money. Let our homes be channels of blessing for many and glorify Your name through every act of love we do. In the name of the Lord Jesus, we pray. Amen.

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