How Fun Is This?

Give as freely as you have received!

Matthew 10:8

Nothing sparks giving like receiving! What is the first thing we want to do when someone gives us something? We want to return the gesture, right after we say thank you! We often think about the sender and choose something that would be meaningful and special to that person.

The Lord inspires me by example more than anyone on this earth. If I am struggling in any way and I hear God’s viewpoint from His Word, I am inspired by His Spirit to move closer to His way of thinking. The times I have been prompted in my spirit but failed to give are moments I regret. I can’t think of one time I wished I hadn’t given.

In today’s verse the Lord is instructing us to give as freely as we have received. It’s a practice that I have purposed in my heart to follow, especially since I get so much enjoyment out of the process. I look to God’s immeasurable example. Two thousand years ago He gave us quite the inspiration to follow when He gave us His Son, Jesus, the ultimate gift.

As believers in Christ, we have received salvation—a gift that can’t be topped. But He also has given us the power of His Holy Spirit and His provision of love, joy, peace, and comfort even in the midst of the difficulties and heartaches of life. Oh, how much we have received from His abundant love! There is no other response but to follow His example and make the choice to freely give to others our time, talents, and treasures.

Give something today that warrants nothing in return, ever, and do not tell anyone. That gift counts as giving directly to God. He sees, and His notice is all that matters! “When you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you” (Matthew 6:3-4).