People are generally very gracious and generous. I have seen crowd funding for those in need that far exceed the original goal. I have a neighbor that had an emergency at their home and the community provided for them at an instant without question or thought to the sacrifice of those providing. I have personally had a friend drive 30 miles out of his way to pick me up on the side of the road when my car broke down. People will give when called upon to do so.
“18I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you send, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.” – Philippians 4:18 (ESV)
In this verse, Paul tells of the provision that was supplied to him by the Philippians as he spread the gospel. Paul is clear that he received the gifts and they were useful to him as he continued.
Ours is to accept the gifts that have been presented and be thankful for them. As the receiver, I do not know the sacrifice of the giver to provide for my need. I have no say in what I receive.
I don’t know that the giver is going without so that I do not have to. Although sometimes I do, as with the example of the friend that came to pick me up. He was missing the very baseball game I was headed to as spectators for our sons as they supported the playoff team as freshman on the varsity squad with the chance they could get in the game. He came anyway.
I have to only be thankful for the gift and know that there may be more to it than what I see on the surface. Whereas it may be seam to be a simple gift of time, a meal, or a ride, the impact to the giver may be much greater than I could have imagined.
“19And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19 (ESV)
And part of my thanks for the provisions supplied in my need, I should be asking for and letting the giver know that my God is thankful for their generosity and that He will provide for their needs when the time comes.
When you are in need, what are your thoughts about the gifts you receive from others? Are you questioning the why or what they gave? Are you thankful for what may have been a sacrifice the giver experiences?
Trevor's Thoughts 