https://odb.org/2024/06/02/generously-given-and-shared
One of the common themes in these pages is the one on generosity. The LORD loves a cheerful giver, not only a giver to the church but more so, a giver to those in need. Like the young couple in today’s ODB that needed a lower interest rate loan to settle a study loan of which they couldn’t get from a local bank due to their short credit history. Instead, their friend, who is an elder in the local church, decided to lend them the money interest-free. Sometimes, generosity may not require us to part with capital but just to forgo the interest income we could obtain from a bank for the capital.
In Psalm 112:5, it is written that good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice. In other words, we should be generous and fair. We don’t take advantage of other people’s predicament or misfortune, like buying over the distressed assets of a brother facing foreclosure. Instead, if we could, we should extend him a loan for him to keep his creditors at bay. When the economy improves, he should be able to repay us. This is not mandatory, but if we do this, good will come our way as God loves a generous person.
But sometimes, generosity also means giving away money to a worthy cause. Not just forgoing interest. Some causes have perpetual benefits, like contributing to mission organisations that spread the Gospel. Sometimes, the impact of our money will only be felt a few generations away, especially those involved in urban renewal projects or contributions for work in closed countries. Nevertheless, these are worthy causes, and we can give an amount we are comfortable with, balancing our need to save for our old age.
Be generous. It doesn’t mean that we need to give large sums of money. It just means that we are willing to lend or give freely with justice and fairness. Give or lend what we can afford, but do it cheerfully and generously as the Lord loves a cheerful and generous giver! Amen!
Ronnie's Thoughts 