The Honor In Giving

Hebrews 13:16 “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” ~NIV

Little Bobby's grandfather bought him some ice cream at an ice cream truck in the park. After receiving the ice cream, little Bobby strolls to a spot in the park to sit down and enjoy his ice cream. Just before he tastes his delicious dessert, he observes another little boy. This particular little boy is dressed in worn, old and dirty clothes. With a sad face, the little boy is watching the other kids, standing with their parents, in the line at the ice cream truck. Bobby gets up, walks over to the little boy, “Excuse me, but would you like this ice cream?” The little boy looks at the sweating two scoops of vanilla and chocolate, and with a huge smile, nods his head. Bobby, without hesitation, gives his ice cream to the little boy. The little boy thanks him and walks away devouring the two scoops.

Bobby’s grandfather walks up to him and says, “That was really nice of you Bobby! I am so proud of you! You have a natural giving nature. Now come on, I’m gonna get you another two scoops.”
    “No granddaddy.” Bobby says as he keeps his eyes on the little boy eating the ice cream. “I don’t want another one.”
    Confused, his grandfather asks, “Why not? You deserve it.”
    Bobby takes a breath and says proudly, “Because, I don’t think I would enjoy the ice cream as much as I am enjoying watching my new friend. He is actually enjoying the ice cream more than I ever could.”

Bobby is a great example of the saying, ‘It is better to give than to receive.’ You see, at first Bobby may have given away his ice cream because he knew he could just get some more. But after giving it to the little boy, he was able to see the joy come upon that child. In his face and his actions, as he ate the ice cream. That in itself was satisfaction enough for Bobby. As Christians this is how we should be as well. Wanting to give and live a life of sharing joy.

When our relationship with God becomes stronger, and we walk in the way Christ does, our desire to give becomes stronger than our desire to receive. This is because we get this godly desire from God. He gave us more than we deserve when He sacrificed His Son for all of us. God's giving is how we should pattern our giving. Not just financial or material things, but also in love and in time. 

It is through this love and time God will seed into others through us, His Word of peace and prosperity. So that we may live a life where He is pleased. Sharing in love, joy, peace, and patience is what’s needed today in our journey in Christ. May God bless you with all you need to accomplish His mission of giving as you journey in Jesus’ name.

Amen

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