You Can’t Outgive God
As missionaries in Africa, we work among some of the poorest people in the world. Most families have at least 8 kids, many children die of malaria and malnutrition, men struggle to find consistent jobs to provide for their large homes. There are half a million people in our city that have never had a Christian friend or heard the gospel. They are what we call “unreached.”
Honestly, their physical and spiritual needs both can be so overwhelming.
We strive to practically bless and love these people while sharing the hope we have in Jesus. We give bags of rice, oil jars, medicine, money. We also give our time, our investment, our hearts. We give away a life of access to good health care, closeness with extended family and friends, and many freedoms. But could we be more generous?
A coworker missionary once challenged us, “Are you afraid of being taken advantage of? Why do you fear generosity?”
When you see someone in need, do you hesitate? Do you wonder, what if they use my gift for drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes? What if I’m wasting my time serving in this way? Of course, wisdom is necessary in charity—but fear should not paralyze us.
The missionary gave us a powerful image to consider:
Imagine that day when you will stand and be judged before God’s throne in heaven. On one side is you. On the other side is a person in need. That person says, “Lord, I was struggling. I was hurting. I was begging this person for help.”
You respond, “Lord, I thought he was going to misuse my gift! My time, my money. I wasn’t sure he was truly in need or that what I gave him would be used appropriately.”
Do you really want to stand before God and say, “YES! I was never once taken advantage of!” Is that our goal of being generous? Was that Jesus’ goal in his life of extravagant giving?
Or would you rather say, “Lord, I used wisdom when giving, and though some may have misused my generosity, I stand before You with a heart pure and committed to generosity and charity.”
Have there been times when the Lord prompted you to be generous, but you hesitated? Do you trust God with your finances? How about with your time or skills?
“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” - 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
A Call to Generosity
The need around you is great. Steward well the blessings God has given you and be intentional about living generously. May you be quick to give, and may you do so with a cheerful heart!
This was written and submitted by global partners that serve in Africa. We are thankful for the K Family and their desire to serve the Lord!