The God Who Gives

Many organizations have benefited from the charitable donations of the Mary Stuart Rogers Foundation, which has funded college scholarships, universities, medical centers, and much more. When the head of the foundation, John Rogers, was asked for his motivation for giving, he said this: “You can’t take it with you. I am a custodian of the money God has given me.” This generous spirit was directly derived from the generosity of God Himself.

David made a similar connection in a prayer recorded in the book of 1 Chronicles. In chapter 29, the people of Israel were taking an offering to build the temple, collecting all the precious stones and materials they could muster. King David himself donated tons of silver and gold to its construction, which inspired others to give generously as well (1 Chronicles 29:3,6).

But immediately after this amazing moment of corporate generosity, David redirected all the attention to God (1 Chronicles 29:10), worshiping Him by saying, “Everything we have has come from you, and we give you only what you first gave us!” (1 Chronicles 29:14). David reminded the people that even though it appeared they had given generously, God is ultimately the ruler and owner of all things. Acknowledging God’s ownership over all things once more—“This material we have gathered . . . comes from you!” (1 Chronicles 29:16)—David used this truth to inspire all the people of Israel to give generously.

As revealed in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), we don’t own anything. Instead, we’re God’s stewards, giving out of what He’s placed in our hands. So let’s give generously, knowing we’re simply passing on what God has lavished on us.

Taken from “Our Daily Journey”