Matthew 6:2 Mark 9:41 Mathew 25:40 2/9/2016*

Matthew 6:² “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others..."

This verse makes an assumption.  That you give to the needy ... Do you?

We seldom slow down long enough to consider others' needs... and because of that, we miss blessings. Generosity is a lost art, that we have allowed busyness, selfishness, and cynicism to kill. Often our gifts are little more than tax deductible, self promotions.

This is sad, as there is nothing that gives a true believer more joy than giving a pure gift.

Jesus said it matters little whether the receiver is deserving or not, what matters is the givers heart and motivation.  "... anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward."  (Mark 9:41).  

At times we seem to ignore the clear directive in this verse ... it is how we are to reach the world..."By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."  John 13:35

Love is not something you talk about...it is something you do.

An act of love towards one of God's children, is an act of love towards God. ... whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (Mathew 25:40). This verse is not speaking to an organization, but to each of us individually.

This week, be intentional.  Ask God to put a need on your heart. Pick a day, put it on your calendar,  and go meet that need.

Don't just hand someone a couple dollars, but sacrifice your time, energy, and money to change someone's reality... just because God loves them.

You will be the one who receives.

"The gospel alone liberates you to live a life of scandalous generosity..."

Tullian Tchividjian