Takers Vs. Givers

Whether we realize it or not, each of us fall into one of two categories in life: takers or givers. Certainly, there are times we we are (and should be) both; however, our overall approach to life will label us as one or the other. The Bible speaks in length about how short our time here is on earth and the importance of how we spend every moment we have been gifted. As you look at your approach to life, which do you see yourself being?

Proverbs 20:4 says, The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing. In other words, if you do not give (the work) you will not receive the reward. There seems to be a work shortage in our country. Not a shortage of jobs or able-bodied people who can work, but an alarming number people who chose not to work yet still want to be taken care of.

The Bible goes on to tell us not only that we should give but in the frame of mind giving should be done. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, we learn that giving should be done with gladness: Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. In other words, are you thankful for the opportunity to give or simply doing it because you think you have to?

Another important passage about giving is often missed or unnoticed. Proverbs 3:27-28 says we should only be giving to those whom it is do. As Christians, we can and should discern those we are giving to as deserving or worthy. With this, we must be very careful to follow the guiding of the Holy Spirit. He will tell us who and what we should be giving to if we listen to Him. Although not believed by some, it is biblical truth that not everyone we come into contact with is worthy of our giving. Our giving of time, attention, financial resources or other means of aid. And finally, in Acts 20:35 the Apostle Paul tells us it is more blessed to give than to receive. Just as Jesus taught on the Sabbath (Luke 6:38) that we will be blessed more in giving than we ever could by simply receiving.

Have you ever given out of pure joy? If so, you have experienced one of the greatest blessings of God...

Pastor Aaron