Our motives are important to God. Giving grudgingly or by force is not viewed by God as generosity. Generosity has to flow from a willingness to help others. As we more fully grasp the depths of God’s love for us, our love for our fellow man should increase.
When the young lawyer asked Jesus what commandment was the greatest, Jesus replied, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself. ” Matthew 22: 38 – 40
Paul provided instructions to the Corinthians on how they should prepare gifts for those in need, “Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren to go to you ahead of time, and prepare your generous gift beforehand, which you had previously promised, that it may be ready as a matter of generosity and not as a grudging obligation.” 2 Corinthians 9:5
If we truly love God, that love will overflow into love for people. Thankfulness for the many blessing God has bestowed will manifest itself in sharing those blessings with others.
Jesus taught His disciples to give without expectations, “Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back. But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. ” Luke 6:30 – 35
God supplies our needs and has extended generosity to each us through the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. We, in turn, should be generous with those in need whom God puts in our path.
Ask God to open your eyes to see those around you who are in need. Seek His guidance on how to share the blessings He has bestowed on you with others. Be His hands extended.
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Susan's Reflections 
Amen