Give: Be a Doer Not a Hearer Only

If you think you can’t give, try to adjust your thinking. 

All of us face different struggles with money. Larry Burkett grew up in a poor family and he never forgot the struggles they faced. Their problem was philosophical. They thought “poor”. His parents came through the Great Depression. The eight years his father couldn’t work left a great impression on him. So, much so, that from that time forward, they lived poorly and never spent money – even on a decent house. Every financial discussion Larry could remember ended up with these four words. “We can’t afford it.” It haunted him all of his life. However, those negative circumstances built within him a resolve to never be poor.

Larry had the opportunity to make a lot of money in business and from writing. Thankfully, the Lord convicted him to give the surplus away. He knew that if he didn’t, he would never fully depend on God. It’s an essential truth for all of us. If we have more than we need, there isn’t much need to trust in the Lord. As Proverbs 30:8 says, “Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.” So consider your life. Have you hoarded resources or have you freely given to those in need? We’ll all be judged by the way we use what God faithfully provides. The question for us is whether we’ll be doers of the Word or hearers only. I want to be known as a doer by my family, my neighbors, co-workers, church friends and the world. Will you join me?

Now if credit card debt limits your giving, I recommend Christian Credit Counselors. They’ll create a debt management plan that will work for you. For more information call the Crown Helpline: 800-722-1976 or visit online at crown.org/ccc.