June 20, 2023
Topic: DOING GOOD TO ALL – Benefits of Giving
Text: 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, 2 Corinthians 9:10-15, Proverbs 11:24-25, Matthew 26:6-13.
Memory Verse: Matthew 5:45 (NKJV): Proverbs 11:25 (NKJV): “The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself.”
It is commonplace to expect payment or reward after labour. In fact, many have had to renegotiate their rewards or salaries from time to time, according to what they feel they deserve. Others have had to go the extra mile to be able to secure a reward or payment for genuine services rendered. While some have forfeited their rewards through circumstances beyond their control.
A popular study noted that giving decreases blood pressure. It reduces stress, promotes longer life and better health. It also, promotes social connections. According to this report, giving to one person often benefits others down the line or more interestingly, returns to the original giver.
God, in Isaiah 45:1, the Lord declares that He has not called Jacob to serve Him in vain. As believers, we are the seed of Abraham and therefore, Jacob.
There are other benefits listed: Giving makes the giver happy and is contagious i.e. causes others to respond by giving more. God says He has not called us in vain. He is a faithful God. The Biblical benefits of doing good by giving are:
i. It is pleasing to God. Heb 13:16
ii. It is in obedience to God’s command. Deuteronomy 15:11, God commands us to be generous to the poor, for they shall never cease to be in the land. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2.
iii. You’ll be remembered by God and in the heart of those that received. You will be blessed of God. Psalms 112:5-6, Psalms 41:1,
iv. Serves Christ. Matthew 25:35-45.
v. Provides help to the needy – Romans 12:13, Luke 10:25-37.
vi. Is a source of self-discipline – Proverbs 21:26, Deuteronomy 15:10.
vii. Is a practical demonstration of love. John 13:34-35.
viii. Lays up treasures in Heaven. Matthew 6:19-21.
Listed above, are benefits of doing good to all, by giving. Give generously and cheerfully of your time, finances and deeds. There is nothing that we have that was not given to us by God. Greater joy and peace await the giver, in this life and by His grace in the hereafter.
Prayer: I am thine, Oh Lord, cause me to seek your pleasure so that your blessings will be mine in abundance. In Jesus’ Name! Amen.