The Sower of Bounty: Reaping What We Give Liberally

He that soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly—so declares Paul in this magnificent horticultural metaphor. The way of genuine beneficence unfolds in three movements: first, we give bountifully, not grudgingly. Second, we give deliberately, not from impulse or external pressure. A spurious charity yields to momentary emotion; true generosity springs from considered purpose. Third, we give cheerfully, for Adonai loves the cheerful giver.

The worth of such charity is incalculable. In its issues, liberal giving confers happiness upon the practitioner—he is blessed in his very deed. It secures the blessing of the Almighty Himself: He ensures the charitable man loses nothing by his contributions, and His beneficent works multiply eternally like seeds sown in perpetual harvest. Such generosity alleviates human distress and prompts universal worship.

The character of the liberal giver is formed under supreme regard to God and the Redeemer. Beneficent love toward men proves our knowledge of God's love and our reciprocal love for Him. True liberal charity divides itself widely among many, proportioned wisely to need—never confined to near relations or intimate friends alone. The principle birthing such charity extends its influence in every possible direction.

The reward, expressed in the promise that he shall reap also bountifully, manifests itself in inward enjoyment, spiritual improvement, and the blessing and intercessions of those receiving aid. This prospect of good stands as Yahweh's inducement to liberal generosity.