6-7Remember: A stingy planter gets a stingy crop; a lavish planter gets a lavish crop. I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting. God loves it when the giver delights in the giving. (The Message)
I've heard it all when it comes to people asking for help. I've gotten letters telling me how much I can help by giving even a small amount with the request picture of a pleading child on the front. I've had people tell me that things just won't get done if I don't pull out my check book and write a check to (fill in the blank) before it's to late. But I hardly ever give to these requests any longer. It isn't that I've gotten hardened or fear being taken advantage of by someone. I don't get caught in the sob stories because I know what God has put on my heart for significant giving. I know that I will tithe to my church and then give over and above that to several organizations which I support their mission. I give generously so I don't mind saying no or throwing mass mailings away without opening them. At the end of the year when I tally up the giving for tax purposes I don't have any regrets for how much I have given or to where it has gone because I've planned ahead. In fact because I plan ahead I'm usually able to give to some people or organizations that I hadn't planned on without worrying about it.
I think this is what Paul has in mind here.
Some thoughts to ponder and share with others:
- We often hear that God loves a cheerful giver, do you think you are a cheerful giver?
- Why do you think Paul encourages people to plan their giving?
- How do you plan your giving to areas of need?
- Where do you think God wants you to concentrate your giving?
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