by Neema Joshua | 18 December 2019 08:46 am12
Proverbs 11:24 – “One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.”
Shalom, and may the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be blessed. Welcome once again as we meditate on God’s Word.
God has established certain principles in life that are crucial for us to understand. Ignorance of these principles can lead to spiritual and even practical destruction. One key aspect of this knowledge is understanding the foundation of God’s Word, rather than wandering aimlessly seeking solutions through prayers without aligning with Biblical truth.
For instance, a person might be struggling with a particular issue, perhaps even spiritual oppression, but lacks the knowledge that the blood of Jesus Christ is what removes the root of all demonic powers when one genuinely repents and is baptized (Hebrews 9:14; 1 John 1:7). If they attempt to address these problems through prayer alone while remaining in sin—still engaging in sexual immorality, living with a partner unlawfully, indulging in drunkenness, or dressing immodestly—they may see temporary relief but the problems will return stronger. This happens because they lacked the correct understanding and obedience to God’s ways.
Another lesson is about giving. Human nature finds it harder to give than to receive. Yet giving is a foundational principle for anyone, whether saved or unsaved (Acts 20:35). To be a good giver, one must overcome their current circumstances. As the proverb says, “Our circumstances are a great enemy of our giving.”
If we only give when conditions are perfect—when we have enough, when the timing is right—our giving will always be limited. Even a billionaire, when constantly analyzing their finances, may struggle to give. Similarly, a person of modest means who dwells on what they cannot afford—“I cannot buy this, I cannot buy that”—will face resistance in giving.
This is because whatever we possess feels insufficient for our needs. Yet God calls us to open our hands to help others, support the work of His Kingdom, and provide for the needy (Luke 6:38). The blessings of God are often linked to our willingness to give, even beyond what we feel we can afford. When we obey this principle, God’s glory accompanies us, and we set the stage for blessings in our lives:
Luke 6:38 – “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
God may appear to our human eyes as if He is giving to someone without means or planning, but His supernatural provision surpasses our understanding. Miracles will open doors we never imagined, restoring what was lost and blessing us doubly, both in heaven and on earth.
Conversely, withholding our giving leads to lack:
“One who withholds unduly comes to poverty” (Proverbs 11:24).
Giving is therefore essential for attracting God’s blessings. Even one act of generosity carries power far beyond many prayers (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
We must also be mindful when giving to God’s work. Our hearts must be pure, for God does not delight in offerings given grudgingly or without reverence (Malachi 3:10). To be effective givers, we must stop over-focusing on our current limitations and trust God’s promise to bless those who obey Him.
As God promised in His Word, He will honor obedience and provide for His children abundantly, for He is faithful and never lies (Numbers 23:19).
Key Takeaways:
Spiritual problems require spiritual solutions: True deliverance comes through repentance and the blood of Jesus.
Circumstances should not limit giving: Overcoming self-focus and lack mentality is essential.
Blessings follow generosity: Giving opens the door for God’s provision both in heaven and on earth.
Purity of heart matters: God values sincere giving, not just the act itself.
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2019/12/18/our-circumstances-and-how-they-can-affect-our-giving/
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