Generously Given and Shared

We're so glad you joined us for today's encouragement from Our Daily Bread. I'm James Banks, and I called our reading today Generously Given and Shared. When my wife Carrie and I finished our higher education, we had several thousand dollars in debt that we needed to consolidate through a lower interest rate.

We applied for a loan at the local bank but were turned down because we hadn't lived or worked in that city for long. A few days later, I shared what had happened with my friend Ming, who was an elder in our church. I'd like to mention this to my wife, he said on the way out the door.

A few hours later, the phone rang. It was Ming. Anne and I would like to loan you the money you need, interest free, he offered. I didn't know what to say, so I responded, I can't ask that of you.

You're not asking, Ming answered jovially. They kindly gave us the loan, and Carrie and I paid them back as quickly as we could. I believe Ming and Anne were generous because of their love for God. As Psalm 112 tells us, good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice.

Those who trust in God can have steadfast hearts that are secure, understanding that he is the source of everything good in their lives. God has been generous with us, giving us life and forgiveness. Let's be generous in sharing his love and our resources with those in need.

For our scripture reading today, I'll be reading Psalm 112, a hymn that celebrates the virtues and prosperity and blessings of those who have come to deeply love God. Praise the Lord. Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in his commands. Their children will be mighty in the land. The generation of the upright will be blessed. Death and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever. Even in darkness, light dawns for the upright, for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous.

Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice. Surely the righteous will never be shaken. They will be remembered forever. They will have no fear of bad news. Their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. Their hearts are secure. They will have no fear. In the end, they will look in triumph on their foes.

They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor. Their righteousness endures forever. Their horn will be lifted high in honor. The wicked will see and be vexed.

They will gnash their teeth and waste away. The longings of the wicked will come to nothing. Let's pray together. Thank you, loving Father, for giving us the gift of life and for providing for us every day of our lives. Help us to trust you and have a generous heart like yours. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. Thanks for listening today. My name is James Banks and today's encouragement was provided by Our Daily Bread Ministries.