Why is it that whenever we hear the words "joyful" and "giver" together, we automatically think of tithes? Well, in this mini-devotional I'm not going to talk about tithes at all.
Did I just hear a sigh of relief? It's okay, we've all been there. We hear "giving" and think about how tight things are in our financial situation and immediately our defenses go up. Let them down. It's safe.
Today I want to talk to you about the attitude you show when you give anything.
Remember Matthew 10:42 "And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward."
This simple glass of water is a gift. It's an act of kindness to get up, pour the water and place it carefully into tiny hands so it doesn't all spill out on the kitchen floor. What attitude do you demonstrate, Mom, when you pour that glass? Are you inconvenienced or full of joy at the opportunity to serve?
Let's try another:
Luke 6:37-38 says "Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you." (emphasis mine)
They say they're thirsty? Pour a tall glass. Choose the large sippy cup and fill it up.
I love what Amy Carmichael said. She put it this way, "You can always give without loving, but you can never love without giving."
Moms, we have a responsibility to love with a giving spirit, modeling joyful generosity to our children. We have to be willing to give so joyfully that it would appear as if we are living for the simple pleasure of pouring that drink of water. There is blessing in it, Mom. Don't you want that blessing?
Guess what? As they watch us joyfully serve, giving with a happy heart until we're near exhaustion they'll be led to ask a question that reinvigorates us. They'll show a thirst for more than water. They'll ask us to explain the source of living water. Our example matters. Our attitude counts. Our demeanor draws or repels our children to Christ.
This is extremely encouraging, but often immensely challenging. Don't give up.
Joy is contagious and worth every minute.
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