The blessing of blessing
Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. –Philippians 4:17-19 (NIV)
What is it about gratitude that makes it important? Why is it mentioned so frequently in Scripture? Sure, it’s right and proper, but the practice of gratitude is also healthy. What makes that so? I think it’s about perspective: None of us makes it on our own. We all need the diligent care and kindness of those who have gone before, who are able and willing to help us along – to bless us. Saying “Thank You” acknowledges that we understand that. It is both humbling and liberating.
There are no “self-made men”. All good gifts are from God. He “ships direct” a lot of the time, but He also seems to enjoy dispensing many of His gifts through others. If we realize this, we are free not only to express appreciation, but also to release our anxiety over having “enough” and even start looking around for ways to bless others. Generosity reflects the heart of our Father, the ultimate Giver.
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth… –James 1: 17-18a (NIV)
God invites us to be givers – sharing the blessing of blessing. To do that effectively and joyfully, I have to plan for it by intentionally creating margin in my life. This applies whether the gift is spiritual, emotional, relational, physical, or financial. I occasionally take on more than I should in the face of an urgent need, and I do not discount the possibility that God sometimes puts those situations in front of me so that He can turn around and provide “above and beyond”. But making a habit of those “crisis-management moments” has not proven to be sustainable. It has often led to stress that sucks the joy out of the blessing for me. At the other end of the spectrum, I have experienced regret over opportunities that I had to pass on because I wasn’t prepared to step in and help. I cannot give what I do not have, and I will not have what I haven’t planned for.
God gives in abundance. I *should* always have plenty to live and plenty to share. But that is only true if I steward well the gifts He provides – time, talent, and treasure. Trying to be generous when I am unsure of whether I can afford it causes anxiety. Being unsure may reflect a trust issue, but at this point in my life, it is more often a stewardship issue. If I have not left room for generosity, I am not ready to be generous and I lose the blessing of blessing.
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. –2 Corinthians 9:7-8 (NIV)