ODJ: harvest of generosity

January 22, 2014 

READ: 2 Corinthians 9:1-13 

They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever (v.9).

In East Africa I’ve found that a little goes a long way. For example, my colleagues and I are able to help feed 20 children in Uganda for far less than it would cost to feed 20 children in some western parts of the world.

I love giving and then seeing smiles spread across the faces of the ladies and children we serve in the sub-Sahara region. When I consider the joy I experience in helping others, I can’t help but recognise the reason I have much to share. I can minister to the Ugandan people because many people have given sacrificially to me.

As God meets my needs, says 2 Corinthians 9:8, I have everything I need and plenty left over to share with others. The apostle Paul adds, “For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you” (v.10). Both of these verses apply the “reap what you sow” principle to generosity. Just as planting seeds of righteousness yields a crop of love (Hosea 10:12) or planting seeds of peace reaps a harvest of righteousness (James 3:18), when you sow generosity you will reap a harvest of it.

Giving is something the Lord multiplies. He brings forth great returns on kindness and generosity. Unlike our economy and stock markets, God’s ‘giving’ market consistently yields high interest.

Remember to practise Galatians 6:9-10: “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith”. —Roxanne Robbins