Give, Give, Give

by Macy Johnson

“A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.”

(Proverbs 11:25 NIV)

The Holy Spirit says, “Give, give, give - want nothing in return.”

My sister, Sandy, drove through the neighborhoods of San Francisco, taking me to see her daughter’s house. We stopped at a traffic light and noticed an elderly, bearded, bedraggled man nearby holding a sign. As if on cue, we both reached into our wallets and pulled out bills. I looked the grateful gentleman in the eye as I handed him the gift and said, “God bless you.” He returned the blessing.

Some say it is foolish to give money to strangers on the street. I say if God leads me to give, I will give. Sadly, I must admit, I too often ignore the prod. I forget it is pure joy to recognize and obey the Holy Spirit’s lead to give unconditionally. 

Driving out of Walmart’s parking lot one afternoon, I noticed a man resting with a sparse collection of belongings under a tree. I pulled near the curb, rolled down my window, and handed him a bill. He was thankful and I was honored to be a blessing to ease his struggle, even if only a little bit.

Max Lucado says, “Give the rarest of gifts – your full attention.” Give your time to those who cannot repay you. Spend time listening, sharing, caring for others. Pass on the blessings you have been given.

“Giving to the needs of another demonstrates the sincerity of our love for Christ,” wrote Larry Burkett, renowned financial counselor.

I want to be God’s humble, invisible, silent servant - a wise, faithful, frugal steward of all His amazing gifts.

I will listen to the Holy Spirit’s gentle whispers to “give, give, give” today. I hope you will, too!