It has really been impressed upon my heart lately that we as Christians need to continue giving generously to both our churches and the needy or oppressed (like widows and orphans), even in these economically difficult times. If there has ever been a time to give to orphans or support an adoption or orphan care charity, it is now, when they too are being affected by the recession. Imagine being an orphan and having nothing to begin with. Then add global economic distress and the picture becomes very bleak. We, as Americans, are still living in one of the richest, most financially blessed nations on earth. Our sacrifices in this recession have been minimal compared to what people in other countries must go without each and every day. Therefore, I just want to encourage you, and myself, to keep on giving generously to the orphan, even if it is reduced somewhat. In the spirit of Matthew 6:20, I want to urge us all to store up for ourselves “treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”-When we give money, even as little as a collected jarful of our loose change, to a ministry that helps Christian families bring orphaned children into their homes, we are storing up for ourselves treasure in Heaven.
-When we seek to be the hands and feet of Jesus to foster children domestically or orphans overseas, we are storing up for ourselves treasure in Heaven.
-When we support ministries which feed and clothe the Fatherless and share Christ with them in Jesus’ name, we are storing up for ourselves treasure in Heaven.
-When we volunteer our time to help an adoption agency, orphan care charity, or an adoptive family for Christ’s sake, we are storing up for ourselves treasure in Heaven.
So, as much as you are able, don’t let this recession keep you from giving, because you can’t out-give God. He “owns the cattle on a thousand hills” (Ps. 50:10) and is more than able to meet our own needs when we step out in faith and give generously for His glory!
photo from: http://www.power-of-giving.com/images/power-of-giving-5.jpg
4 comments:
HI Annie, I hope all is going well for you. This is a very good reminder that even though we think money is tight, it all the more would be affecting the ones in need. And treasures here on earth don't matter, but we need to store up treasures in heaven, by helping the needy and fatherless. It is so easy to stop giving in times of economic distress, but it is so important! Thanks for the reminder!
Excellent post Annie, a good reminder for all of us that no matter how tough things are, for others, they are tougher.
And we are called to help when God enables us to do so.
Been enjoying your blog, blessings to you. :-)
Very true. i've thought a bit on this reality realizing how right now God has so faithfully provided.
I just came across your blog. Your heart for the orphans and the hurting kids of the world is refreshing and a challenge to all who read your blog. God Bless you as you continue to follow his lead and serve the least of these.
Post a Comment