https://odb.org/2023/08/24/openhearted-generosity
Having a heart that is both open and generous is not only Christ-like but also Godly. These are attributes that Paul speaks about in Romans 12:2 on not conforming to the pattern of the world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds so we may prove (test and experience) the good, acceptable and perfect will of God.
When we are open to possibilities, especially to God, and have a generous and sharing nature, God will pour out His spiritual blessings upon our lives. It is counterintuitive, like it’s better to give than to receive. It’s like if offered something, it is natural to want to take all or the most we can, but strangely, if we take a little, we will have more and more in time to come. In the natural, we want to take the most we can because we are uncertain that the opportunity will come again, but if we are open and generous, God will bless us with more and more over time. That is the true blessing in the spiritual realm. It’s like the more we give, the more we will receive over time and perhaps throughout the span of our lives.
Thus, by way of illustration, it is better to receive RM1,000 a month than a lump sum of RM100,000. The latter may spoil us and cause us to stray, and although the former is uncertain, it may increase over time if God blesses us. That is why in some countries, if we strike a lottery, we may choose to take a monthly or annual payout rather than a lump sum. The reality is that many ended up losing their fortunes within a few years, but with a monthly stipend or annuity, we will be kept comfortable for years to come and maybe even to our next generation.
To preserve our legacy and inheritance in Christ in the spiritual realm, Paul teaches in 2 Timothy 6:1 to fan into flame the gift of God in Timothy that is in him through the laying of Paul’s hands upon him. Not only is our spiritual walk a long game, but it is important to have our spiritual giftings to last the longer term in our lifetime, and that includes our blessings from God. We need to always have a long-term view in all things that will last our lifetime so we may remain faithful to our Saviour and Lord until our last breath. Our ultimate goal in life is to appear before Christ with Him affirming us that we have done well – good and faithful servant, welcome to your rest!
Ronnie's Thoughts 