What percentage of your time, talent, or treasure do you give to those in need?

Solomon communicated that whether or not we give to the poor depends on our passion for God: “He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God” (Proverbs 14:31). He went on to say that God rewards those who give to the poor: “He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done” (Proverbs 19:17). This reward is, most likely, intimacy with God.

When we waive our resources to the poor, we demonstrate that God is our passion, and we grow in our relationship with Him. Conversely, ignoring the poor hinders intimacy with God. Solomon continued, “If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered” (Proverbs 21:13).

Barriers to our intimacy with God bring many problems into our lives. Solomon summarized, “He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses” (Proverbs 28:27).

Would you like to grow in your intimacy with God? Give to someone in need. This week, find a person who could benefit from a portion of your time, talent, or treasure, and waive it on to him or her. You will honor God as your passion.

Episode 27: God's Ins, Outs, Ups, and Downs of Resources, Part 1 from mitchkrusetv on Vimeo.