I was watching Joyce Meyer today and she said something that made me stop and think. The entire Bible is about giving.
I paused for a bit and thought about what she said and I agree. Since the dawn of time, God has given. This does not mean He has not taken away as well, but usually that is when we are being taught a lesson because we have disobeyed God.
Think about it, when you did something wrong or your children did something wrong, what was a typical punishment? I would venture to say that you had something taken from you or you had taken something away from your kids. So before you start getting all mad at God for taking something away, remember what happened to you or what you did.
Anyhow, back to giving. God gave us life, He gave us a second chance after the flood, He gave the Jews freedom, He gave us His Son to die for our sins, He gave us a way to have eternal life with Him, He has given all of us multiple chances to change, and what do we do with it, we throw it back at Him as though it is not enough.
We ask for more money, more power, a bigger house, a nicer car, more material goods, you name it we ask for it. However, what does He expect? I believe He wants us to emulate His behavior in giving to those that are in need and stop taking.
Ephesians 4:28 New International Version (NIV)
28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
When you take and take and take, you are a thief. Stop it and learn to accept and be gracious with what you were given. Stop thinking that everyone owes you something and instead contribute so you can give to those who are in need.
If you are thinking doesn’t that make them a thief? The answer is yes and no. If all they do is take and are not willing to work, then yes. However, if they are out there trying to make a living and are having a difficult time, then no.
I know people who work just enough so they can get all the money they can back from the Federal Government. What a shame. There is nothing preventing them from doing this, but to me that is dishonest and they are acting as a thief.
If you are having a hard time struggling with the concept that you might be a thief, then I am asking you to sit down and really think about what you are doing. Are you working and contributing or are you just taking?