God’s Giving Principle

Lenita was a missionary in Papua New Guinea who had the very generous habit of giving away gifts that were sent to her from friends in the States. It seemed the more she gave, the more she received. She chuckled when she told us that one of the nationals informed her, “You’re going to have to stop giving away so much. You’re getting too many packages.”

In God’s economy, those who give to others find themselves with an abundance. “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25).

A little boy gave his five small barley loaves and two small fish and Jesus used his lunch to feed 5,000 people. When they had all had enough to eat, Jesus said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted” (John 6:12). There was more than enough after Jesus received and blessed the food.

How amazed the disciples must have been throughout that whole meal. Jesus had given so generously — not just barely enough to feed the crowd.

They all ate all they wanted and then there were twelve baskets of leftovers — one basket for each of the disciples. And only a little boy’s lunch had been offered.

Thank You, Lord, that You always notice when, out of love for You, we give what we would enjoy keeping.

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them...And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 6:10; 13:16).