Giving That Makes a Difference

Giving That Makes a Difference

             Sometime ago Charity Navigator reported that about half of charitable donations are made between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. This is a time when some people that  itemize their deductions rush to get last-minute tax write-offs and others respond to an influx of end-of-year appeals or the spirit of the holiday season.  This may explain why beginning about october,  you and I are inundated with mail and telephone calls from fund raising organizations.  Some of these groups simply want our money, not a relationship with us.  Often, they do not even know our name.

            The significant difference between secular fund raising and Christian stewardship is we are asked to give out of relationship with the Lord and because of our covenant fellowship with fellow believers.  As the Macedonians in 2 Corinthians 8  first we give ourselves to the Lord and then to a Christian cause. Christian givers reach up to God in prayer before they reach into their pockets to give.  This way of looking at giving transforms our perspective on stewardship.

            This transformative perspective on giving is needed because the line is often blurred between giving to the Lord and giving to support other causes.  Some of those that appeal to you in coming months would do their best to convince you that their cause merits your support.  Their focus is usually an institution, a religious denomination, or some need that exists.  You are just a prospective donor.

            It is not hard to understand the game that is played. The prospective donor has the money and the organizations wants some.  The hope is that when the donor is convinced that the cause is worthwhile he would give and may even keep on giving. Often there is a quid pro quo – in honor of your gift they promise some form of recognition.

            Paul’s teaching in 2 Corinthians 8 gives us a parade example true Christian stewardship.  The Macedonians gave themselves first to the Lord.  Giving to the Lord is a spiritual grace (2 Corinthians 8:1). It is a grateful response to God’s generosity. Giving to the Lord is a spiritual discipline that brings the believer closer to the Lord. The outcome of such giving is that the work of the Lord is supported and our lives flourish not only materially but also spiritually.

            The stewardship campaign is for you and for me. It calls us to evaluate how we use all the things that the Lord has given us.  It challenges us to discern God’s stewardship will for our lives so that we may know what God is calling us to do with our many resources.  Only you can give back to God and to others out of what God has given you.  Each of us may be the difference through our generous gifts of our time, talents, and money.  Be the difference: Give generously.

 THINK ON THESE THINGS:  QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

 1.    How do you feel about the appeals you get for money?

 2.   What don’t you like about appeals from charities or even the church?

 3.   Does your giving to charities reflect your Christian values?

 4.   What is the best way to make your dollar do good?