e-Devotions from Bob Dannals

Tuesday, September 4

Those who are generous are blessed... Proverbs 22:9

The truth in this passage is ancient and obvious, yet it needs to be said and enacted again and again and again. Generosity extended for loving and just reasons blesses both the giver and receiver. Though proved many times over in history, the wisdom writer must have detected a nagging hoarding and self-interest among the people of Israel.
 

Challenge and Opportunity:

Our hearts and desires are capricious characters. We KNOW that a generous life is the way to behave; we've known that sweet feeling of giving. It's life-giving and soul-deepening. But then our selfish voice comes along: "Oh, you need, you deserve that ____________________." And even when we can afford that item/purchase, another voice speaks: "you know, that is not going to bring you lasting satisfaction, you didn't need that possession; you could have used those resources for something/someone beyond self.