Proverbs 22:9 - A generous man will himself be blessed

A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.

He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.

The promise here is very simple: The person who seeks to relieve the wants and misery of others will be blessed.

What sorts of blessings do we receive when we share with others? The practice of giving out of a generous heart enables us to escape the hold of material things and the power money has over us. We are also freed from unexpected disappointment that descends when financial success fails to satisfy the soul. Instead we grow emotionally and spiritually as we experience fulfillment through real stewardship and the joy of loving sacrifice.

Giving to those in need is not an obligation, but an opportunity. Think about your standard approach to money and belongings. Ask yourself, "Am I holding on with a tight fist or offering my open hand to share with those in need?

Psalm 130:1-4 - If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand?

Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD; O Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy. If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared.

Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD. Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.

John Newton was terrified. On March 10th 1748, a storm raged around him and his ship appeared to be sinking. John Newton, a profligate sailor at the time, began to pray. John thought each minute would be his last; yet, the vessel survived the storm. After returning to England, Newton began earnestly studying the Bible. He devoted himself to Christ and eventually entered the ministry. Later, he would write one of the most famous Christian hymns, "Amazing Grace."

John later said, "On that day the Lord sent from on high and delivered me out of deep waters. On that day, Grace, an undeserved kindness in the language of the devout, had begun to work for him. Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come;'tis grace has brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home."