p. 642 | A Cheerful Giver by J. H. Meek

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Oct 29, 1885

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 11, No. 41.

A Cheerful Giver.

By J. H. Meek

It is evident to the casual observer that much that is contributed by professors of religion for the cause of Christianity is given reluctantly, and in such cases the donor does not reap that benefit and receive that blessing that he would should he obey the Scriptural command: "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity; for God loveth a cheerful giver." 2 Cor. 9 : 7. It seems very strange that many are so slow to learn what is their Christian duty in regard to giving, and because it is a delicate matter ministers often fail or neglect to enlighten their people on the subject for fear of censure. All Christians ought to know their duties and privileges pertaining to this important subject. Most certainly the love of God shed abroad in the heart by the Holy Ghost will make a man liberal. There is good reason to doubt a man's piety, although he might be what is termed "a loud professor," if he constantly and persistently refuses or neglects to contribute of his earthly substance for the support and spread of Christianity, and for benevolent purposes. "But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?" 1 John 3 : 17. "He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise." Luke 3 : 11.

To be a Christian is to be Christlike. The example of Jesus is to be imitated in self-denial. "Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." 1 John 3 : 16. All of God's promises are true, and there is a rich reward, both in this world and that which is to come, to the faithful servant of God who seeks in every possible way to glorify his Maker with his money. Again we refer you to the word of God. "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20 : 35. "Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first-fruits of all thine increase; so shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine." Prov. 3 : 9, 10. "The liberal soul shall be made fat; and he that watereth shall be watered also himself." Prov. 11 : 25. "He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again." Prov. 19 : 17. "And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward." Matt. 10 : 42. Reader, are you doing your whole duty in this regard? Are you coming up to the Scriptural standard of benevolence? Never mind about how much another member subscribes or gives for the general and local interests of the church, but do your whole duty.—Rev. J. H. Meek, in Methodist Recorder.