JESUS SPEAKING

    “And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you?  For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back” (Luke 6: 34.)

INSPIRED THOUGHTS

  Even the most selfish human beings will lend to those who can eventually repay them.  Thus Jesus implores His disciples to exercise genuine selflessness; to freely give; expecting nothing in return.  Those who truly yearn to emulate God must also strive to practice the art of sacrificial giving.

  Some time ago, while I was preparing to leave the gym, an acquaintance approached me and asked to borrow ten dollars.  After receiving the money, he repeatedly insisted that he would pay me back.  Using this scripture as my guide, I informed him that the money wasn’t from me; it was from God.  So I didn’t require, nor did I desire, any form of repayment.  Eventually he understood that the cash wasn’t a loan; it was a gift.  As we parted ways, the blessings of obedience filled my heart with joy.

  The Lord yearns for His disciples to standout; to shine; to be more loving and more charitable than the worldly masses.  Giving without expecting repayment is just one of many characteristics of genuine faith.  Whether a stranger is begging for change, or a fellow Christian needs financial assistance, we must freely give, when we are able, in order to fulfill God’s desires. [Note: Giving money to people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol is probably not wise; as we never want to enable individuals who are engaged in practicing evil.] May we continue to embrace divine charity; giving without restriction; that through sincere obedience, we might store up eternal rewards.

    “Lord Heavenly Father, help us to be generous and kind; to give without expecting anything in return.  May we focus more on our eternal blessings than Earthly rewards.  May Your love flow through us; that our faith might be a light to all those who walk in darkness.  We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You; and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.”  God bless all of you!