Acts 20:35 “And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” (NLT)
New on-line fundraising events seem to pop up every day. Many sites allow you to fund-raise for any number of activities. Some of the campaigns tug at heartstrings when they ask to help with surgeries or downtrodden families. Other campaigns ask for help paying for a honeymoon or a large purchase. I even found one the other day that asked for money to dig a hole. The hole appeared to have no purpose but still managed to raise over $95,000. That amount of donations to my charity would sustain the orphanages for at least three years. Amounts that large could provide a Thanksgiving meal to almost 75,000 people in homeless shelters, as another example. As Christians, are we making wise decisions with our donations?
Jesus himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” And as I travel with our mission, the world sees and understands the depth of American generosity. But I wonder if we have lost the way with our giving. I believe most of us will give gifts to our family and friends during the holidays. Giving gifts is a wonderful tradition but are we called to a different kind of giving? Do you plan to make any charitable donations this Christmas season?
The Bible is full of references directing us to help others. I have listed a few below:
Proverbs 21:26 – “The righteous gives and does not hold back.”
Proverbs 3:27 – “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.”
Proverbs 22:9 – “He who is generous will be blessed, for he gives some of his food to the poor.”
Proverbs 28:27 – “He who gives to the poor will never want, but he who shuts his eyes will have many curses.”
Luke 6:30 – “Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back.”
Today is “Giving Tuesday.” A day created to remind us of the importance of giving after all the Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping frenzy. By participating in a day dedicated to giving to those in needs, you can make a huge impact on many lives. Even a donation of $5 or $10 can help stop hunger for one person. This year, why not spend a few dollars less on gifts for friends and family and donate it to someone in need. Many charities need your help to continue to help others.Join the movement today.
Blessings,
Yvonne with Orphan Relief Effort, Inc.
Matthew 28:19 “Therefore, GO and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
http://www.orphanreliefeffort.org or FACEBOOK.com/OREInc
