What Are You Giving?

In Luke 6:38 Jesus said “Give and it shall be given unto you…” This is a very popular scripture that is often used to either encourage or entice financial giving with the expectancy of a financial return. Financial giving and receiving is certainly in the overall tenor of scripture, however this verse does not come in the setting of a financial discourse! When we read the context of Jesus’ message here we find this verse comes in the midst of a sermon on loving our enemies and not being judgmental. So what am I expected to give? Based on the life of Jesus and Biblical teaching, instead of animosity I give mercy; instead of harshness I give gentleness; instead of grudging I give forgiveness; instead of cursing I give blessing; instead of hate I give love; instead of retaliation I give kindness; instead of spite and ill will I give prayer; instead of hurt I give healing; instead of selfishness I give selflessly. Understanding that “even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…” (Mark 10:45), I take my example from Him knowing that “he who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it” (Matthew 10:39). The truth of the story is I give myself! This is what is expected of Christ’s child! How am I measuring up?

I will make a sacrifice of giving my time,

Giving and giving even what should be mine.

I would like to do something just for me,

But someone needs my help to be set free.

The Lord said give and it shall be given to you,

I give of my time though my talents are few.

I’ll take time each day to pray awhile,

And help someone who has a trial.

If I give of myself and make a sacrifice,

Then God is well pleased, isn’t that nice?

A sweet smelling aroma my giving will be,

Well pleasing to God as He gives back to me.