Make A Difference

 “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

I was coming out of a supermarket sometime back, and there was a booth set up outside the exit door. They were asking for a donation for some particular need. Frankly, I have forgotten what the donation was for, but apparently, I felt it was worthwhile. I gave a couple bucks and was on my way. I had not fully exited the parking lot when I sensed this shouting in my spirit saying, MAKE A DIFFERENCE!! I paused a little to try and grasp this message that I had just heard. It was like the Lord was saying to me, when you’re helping someone, make a difference! Don’t just offer a token gift. I can only suppose that my rationale was if everyone gives a couple bucks, they should do well. But what if everyone doesn’t? 

Then again, I sensed this wasn’t simply about that particular need. The message to me seemed to be, when you see a real need and you feel a personal nudge to respond, do what you can to make a real difference. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. The apostle Paul said, “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8).

-Richard