In the flurry of activity to get our adoption finalized we had to figure out in about 24 hours how to get a large sum of money in order to pay for the adoption. I have been reflecting upon how God has provided so graciously through his people in recent days and have come to three conclusions.
1. We should not be shocked or surprised that God provides. He has promised to do so over and over in his Word. As a father to my children, I don't want them to be surprised when I provide for their needs. They should know that I love them so much that it brings me great joy to see them happy. Instead of surprised, I want them to be thankful and humble. I think God does as well (Luke 11:11-13).
2. We should not feel guilty or have a sense of reciprocation when people give generously. I fully believe Acts 20:35 that says that "it is more blessed to give than receive." When people give, there is a promised blessing that they will experience. We should rejoice in this for them.
3. When people give generously and sacrificially there will be a kingdom ripple effect that is powerful. The people that have given towards our adoption do not expect us to pay them back. That would be an offense and would turn their gift into a loan. But those people can know for sure that they have made a significant investment in the kingdom of Jesus. We are changed people as a result of the generosity and they can know that their generosity will not terminate on us, but will rather flow through us as we have the means to do the same for others in the future.
1 comment:
I recently realized that I often pray for God to provide but without faith that He'll provide--as evidenced by my surprise when my prayers are answered.
Your conclusions are good reminders to me. Thank you for this post.
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