A Generous Nation

Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – July 3, 2017

The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. Deuteronomy 28:12

Once we cease to be a generous nation we will cease to enjoy the generous blessings of God.  Jesus clearly says, “Much is required from those to whom much is given, for their responsibility is greater” (Luke 12:48, The Living Bible). What’s best for a country is not just defined within its borders, but in how free citizens seek to expand the freedoms of those outside of its borders. Our choice is not an either/or of us or them, but a both/and of us and them. Of course, as flight attendants remind us, we wisely need to first place the oxygen mask on our nation’s health, so we can care for those around us, but the oxygen of life and liberty must be shared. A generous nation helps other needy nations.

A stewardship of influence accompanies a respected nation of resources, religious freedom, and moral credibility. Similar to someone elevated to a position of authority, they have no option but to make wise choices if their desire is to do what’s best for all stakeholders. Selfishness has a very small view of the world, while unselfishness sees opportunities like a star-studded sky. Indeed not all needs can be met, but we can wisely work with those who want to grow a culture built on proven principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. A generous nation shares the best practices of what made them great since greatness comes from joyfully serving others:

“The one who is the greatest among you must become like the youngest [and least privileged], and the [one who is the] leader, like the servant” (Luke 22:26, The Amplified Bible).

Fortunately, we have a nation of generous givers who are relentless in their efforts to share the gospel, eradicate disease, purify water and create jobs. Global Media Outreach is creatively and effectively reaching thousands of new Jesus followers worldwide and discipling them over a digital platform, while The Seed Company is propagating God’s Word worldwide.  National Christian Foundation, the 9th largest non-profit, is unleashing unprecedented dollars to fund Kingdom work. The fruit of the gospel is far-reaching and forever! The Gates Foundation continues to solve significant global healthcare problems with innovation and easily accessible inoculations. I personally experienced the work of Opportunity International in their over 50-year track record of creating jobs, providing sustainable water and transforming communities. God is on the move, quietly working through citizens of our great nation, something to celebrate and accelerate!

You may ask, “What can I do in my little world?” Do not despise small things, because like faith a little bit of generosity goes a long way in quenching the needs of thirsty hearts, hungry stomachs and suffering children. What cause is your church behind that you can get behind? Pray as a family for other families who need medicine, food and water. Families for Families is a great resource to start engaging in a systematic approach to giving. Sign up for a mission trip. Give to your church and volunteer your time. A friend told me this week he gives his time to non-Christian organizations so he can be “salt and light”! A generous nation is a God blessed nation!

“But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving” (2 Corinthians 8:7).

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