A Life of Giving

Some people only are concerned about themselves. They hoard possessions and focus their attention on getting pleasure and being rewarded for their efforts. This may bring to mind cranky billionaires or selfish entertainers, but the Bible warns us specifically that these are characteristics of “the sluggard.”

A sluggard is not concerned with faithfulness or responsibility, but wants to do as little as possible. Instead of working, such a person is filled with cravings for things “all day long.” This selfish quest for consumption rather than serving “puts him to death.”

However, people who fear and please God are different. They seek to order their lives according to His Word. They desire to do the right thing. They want to be honorable, faithful, fair, and honest. They work hard, as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23-34).

Those who aim to please God have an attitude of giving. They realize that everything they have is a gift from Him. Since the Bible tells us “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7), they look for opportunities to give instead of to hoard. They are generous and do not “hold back.”

Today, examine your life. What is your attitude toward your possessions? Are you a selfish or a generous person? Do you hoard your time and resources? Do you consider yourself a sluggard, or are you seeking to please God? Do you pursue every opportunity to serve Him with the resources He has given you?

Use your talents and invest your resources to advance God’s Kingdom. Live in holiness and righteousness. Seek to obey and serve Him. Make sure to cultivate a life of giving. Be generous with what God has given you, and don’t hold back!