Abundantly

Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:38 NIV

I recall seeing this verse illustrated in this way, a clear glass canning jar filled with pebbles is full. After shaking the jar gently, there is room for a few more stones. Next added was dry sand that sifts between the rocks. Is it full yet? Next, water is poured into the jar, and it becomes absorbed by the sand. Eventually, the sand becomes fully saturated, and the water flows over the top.

Let there be no mistake; we are blessed. God adds to our jar daily. Nothing is removed from our jar when we share our blessings with others. God either finds a way to pack in more gifts or gives us a bigger jar. We have to remember that God doesn't operate under the rule of scarcity but abundance. After all, He made everything we see from nothing! "Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters."

(Genesis 1:2)

In everything we do today, let us do so in abundance. Rather than giving of ourselves less than 100% fearful there won't be enough, give 200% with the confidence that God will provide, "A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap."

God of Abundance, we give you thanks and praise for all your gracious gifts. Help us today deny the world's message of scarcity and instead be generous in giving of all our time and resources. May you bless our gifts, and may they glorify you. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim