AS GENEROUS CHILDREN

. . . that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality.–2 Corinthians 8:2

Did you hear about the mother who asked her children to give some of their allowance to support orphaned children? “These children have no mother or father, not even an aunt or uncle,” the mother explained. “Would you like to give some of your money to help them?” The children thought for a moment and then announced their decision: “Let’s give them Aunt Martha!”

Fortunately, that reply is not typical of children when it comes to money. They are usually incredibly generous when it comes to donating their own money and raising funds from others for worthy causes. And we could learn a lot by imitating their behavior. Or, we could imitate the Macedonian Christians about whom the apostle Paul wrote so eloquently (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). When they heard that the believers in Jerusalem were suffering and needed food, they gave generously—above and beyond their own ability. They did what we should do—believe God gives to us not only for our needs but to meet the needs of others.

The next time you have the opportunity to give, do so with the innocence and generosity of a child who never worries about supply. (From Turning Point)