SUB-THEME: HINDERANCES TO UNLIMITED ADVANCEMENT AND ALL-ROUND FRUITFULNESS
TOPIC: STINGINESS AND INGRATITUDE
TEXTS: PROV. 11:24; 2 COR. 9:6; GAL. 6:7
Stinginess is a noun that means "lack of generosity or an unwillingness to share or give away money or possessions, even when it would be reasonable to do so." It is a different case when we don't have something to give, but when God has provided the resources and we refuse to give out, such action is then regarded as stinginess.
On the other hand, ingratitude means "lack of appreciation for kindness or especially a gift received." Synonyms include ungratefulness, thanklessness, lack of recognition, and unappreciativeness.
From our texts, the dangers of stinginess and ingratitude are obvious. Proverbs 11:24 says: "Some people spend their money freely and still grow richer. Others are cautious [stingy] and yet grow poorer." Again, 2 Cor. 9:6 says: "He who sows sparingly [with stinginess] will reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully." Whatever a man sows, that shall he reap!
These two viruses, (stinginess and ingratitude), if detected in the life of a Christian, will definitely hinder him or her from advancing. This is because the Word of God cannot be broken! Ten lepers were healed by Christ in Luke 17:11-19, but sadly, only one out of the ten came back with a thankful heart. Consequently he received more blessings from the Lord. It is commonly said that when you thank someone for the thing he did for you, he would be moved to do more.
Let us look around us: Do we see reasons to be grateful unto God? If not for anything, what of His sustenance from January to December, in the midst of a harsh economy? Oftentimes we only remember what God has not done, but we are quick to forget what He has done. But count your blessings today. It will surprise you what the Lord has done!
Then in our thankful mode, we must not be stingy! "Thanksgiving" is a combination of two words: THANKS and GIVING. Simply put, our showing of gratitude will not be complete if we do not give. Therefore we must let go of stinginess. Give liberally to God and people around you. He will be moved to do more for you.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, plant in me a new heart, a heart of gratitude. Help me to always be thankful and generous so that through your help, I will be enabled to advance beyond where I am now. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
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