12/04/2023
By Pastor Vinnie Cappetta
"Satisfaction from Giving"
In the latter part of the 17th century, German preacher August H. Francke founded an orphanage in Halle, caring for homeless children. Facing a dire need for funds, Francke encountered a destitute Christian widow seeking a ducat—a gold coin. Though financially constrained, he initially regretfully declined her request. Witnessing her tears, Francke, moved with compassion, sought divine guidance through prayer.
In obedience to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, Francke, trusting in the Lord to meet his own needs, decided to give the widow the requested money. Little did he know the profound impact of this sacrificial act. Days later, the widow expressed her gratitude and shared that she had beseeched the Lord to bless the orphanage abundantly. Astonishingly, Francke received not only 12 ducats from a wealthy woman but also an additional 2 from a friend in Sweden. The pinnacle of this divine provision arrived when the orphanage was bestowed 500 gold pieces from the estate of Prince Lodewyk Van Wurtenburg. Francke, in tears of gratitude, realized that in giving to the needy widow, he had not been impoverished but enriched.
Proverbs 11
• Verse 24: "One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want." Reflect on instances where you have observed this paradox in your life.
• Verse 25: "Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered." Share your experiences of how acts of kindness or generosity toward others have returned as blessings in your life.
• Verse 26: "The people curse him who holds back grain, but a blessing is on the head of him who sells it." This encourages making what we have available to those who need it. Consider practical ways to implement this principle in your life, starting with the resources you possess.
• Verse 28: "Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf." Reflect on moments when trust in money may have overshadowed trust in God. Explore ways to recalibrate your reliance, placing greater trust in God's providence.
In the spirit of Francke's experience, let's find satisfaction and enrichment in sacrificial giving, trusting in the Lord's abundant provision. As Christians, we desire to foster a season of giving that extends beyond Christmas throughout the year. In doing so, may God's provisions leave us satisfied and joyful.
