It’s Seeding Time!
In most parts of our country, we’ve just finished seeding time. It’s a time when farmers work long hours to ensure they get their crops in. Seeding is nothing new. It has gone on for most of human history. Paul compares financial generosity to seeding:
“Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” (2 Corinthians 9:6-7)
You may be thinking, “I can’t afford to give right now. I’ve got so many things to take care of.” But seeding doesn’t work that way.
Robert Morris, in his book, The Blessed Life: Unlocking the Rewards of Generous Giving, points it out this way: “I know that seems mind-numbingly simple but you cannot believe how many people say things like, ‘Someday, when I have more money, I’m going be a giver.’ It will never happen. You can’t reap before you sow. Once again, this is a principle God has woven into the natural order of things.”
You see, generosity is an act of faith. It’s believing that God will bless my life and my resources if I put him first. And, as Paul says, you get to choose how much to give.
So my encouragement to you today is – take a step of faith. Don’t do it to please me or others, and don’t do it because you feel you have to. Just do it, and see if God is faithful to what he says.
Remember, you are a miracle!