To whom much is given, much is required …

To whom much is given, much is required …

By LEE WILLIAMS

There comes a time in our lives when life gets good for us. The bills are paid on time. The children are OK. The car is running. Everything is fine.

But, when we are called on to help someone in need like offering up a warm bed, a pair of shoes, help with a resume or help at the homeless shelter, we fall silent.

We are quick to ask for help, but slow to give it. The importance of giving is a principle that many of us fail to grasp, but Christians must give to others. “Give and it will be given to you,” (Luke 6:38 NIV).

As Christians, we should seek ways to help others because the truth is many of us would not be where we are today if someone did not lend us a hand, leave us an inheritance, or pray for us. To whom much is given, much is required (Luke 12:48).

How can we say we are demonstrating we are true followers of Christ when we refuse to help others no matter how big or small the request?  If we do not have compassion for others, can we really claim to love God?

Jesus teaches us that if someone asks you for something we should give it cheerfully and in confidence.

“When you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you,” (Matt. 6:1-4 NIV).

When we focus on serving others instead of ourselves, then we are doing the true will of God. We have to be a blessing for others in the same way God has been a blessing to us.

So, the next time someone asks you for a helping hand, before you say no, just stop for a minute and ask yourself, “Am I doing what is pleasing to me or what is pleasing to God?” and act accordingly.

Ms. Lee Williams is an award-winning journalist and she resides in Atlanta, GA. She teaches math and English to adults and children. She can be reached via e-mail at amarige25@hotmail.com.