Involvement

Being generous, giving, how do I do this, how do I get involved so that I am a blessing to others?

There are many ways to get involved and to be used of God in the lives of others. Let's look at 2 Corinthians 8 for some principles on giving and being a blessing.

2 Corinthians 8:1-5 ¹And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. ²Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. ³For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, ⁴they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. ⁵And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will.¹

• They saw a need and acted.
• They gave sacrificially.
• They gave even though they were poor.
• They gave with enthusiasm and eagerness.
• God was their primary focus, they gave first to the Lord then to others.

So begin by praying and asking God where He wants you to invest your time and wealth. Then be observant to the needs that come your way. Be willing to give sacrificially. Finally be discerning, be led of the Holy Spirit, for there are far more needs that exist in the world today than you can possibly meet.

Back in 1986 I had an opportunity to go to India on an evangelism project. While there I worked with a local pastor, Abraham, and found him to be a like-minded believer. A few years later he approached me about helping him build and fund an orphanage. Over time God made it clear I was to help him. Thus I became involved in Alpha Children Ministry. Though I did not have large sums of money or large chunks of free time, God has allow us to be a part of this ministry. He has brought others along to join us and partner with us. This has been an incredible blessing to our entire family as we have gone and helped in India and worked to raise money for the orphanage and children. I know I have been blessed far more than I have given.

¹ 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, NIV.