08/12/2024
By Pastor Vinnie Cappetta
"Eternal Dividends: Investing in Others"
In today's business world, we often hear about companies that prioritize profits over people. But let's be honest, it’s not just businesses that fall into this trap. As Christians, we too can sometimes miss opportunities to help others because we’re so caught up in pursuing the "American Dream." Our consumer mentality can easily overshadow our desire to use our resources as God intends.
So, here’s a question: Are you more interested in making money or helping others?
Now, don’t get me wrong. This isn’t about neglecting your family’s needs. The Bible is clear about our responsibility to our families. 1 Timothy 5:8 says, “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” God definitely expects us to care for our families first. But He also calls us to help those in need.
Proverbs 19:17 puts it beautifully: “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will repay him for his deed.” Think about that for a moment. When we give to those in need, it’s like making a loan to God. And can you imagine the kind of interest God uses to repay us? God owns everything and never does anything second-rate. He always keeps His promises.
Proverbs 11:26 adds another layer to our understanding: “People curse the one who hoards grain, but they pray God’s blessing on the one who is willing to sell.” This verse highlights the importance of not holding back resources that could help others. Hoarding what we have leads to curses, while generosity brings blessings. It's a reminder that our resources are not just for us to keep, but to share.
Let me share a personal story. Years ago, my wife and I moved closer to the church where I was serving as a pastor. One Sunday after church, I drove to McDonald’s to meet with some church members. After the meeting, I found an envelope in my car that hadn’t been there before. When I opened it, 10 crisp $100 bills fell out, along with a scripture verse: “But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)
The generous people who placed that money in my car were essentially lending it to the Lord. God knew we were going through a tough financial time and moved those generous souls to help us. They acted as God’s bank, and I trust He has repaid them well.
Here are a few questions to mull over:
- How do you react when you see people in need?
- Can you think of someone who might be in need right now?
- How do you think God might use you to help them out?
God’s economy values people over profits. When we give generously, we’re part of His divine plan to bless others, and we often find ourselves blessed in return. Let’s strive to be more like God’s bank, using what He’s given us to support and uplift those around us.
