Reflections on God’s Provision

by Rev. J. Loring Carpenter

Bob and I were recently discussing stewardship. The story he shared still challenges me. Preparing for Stewardship Sunday, he said, “the Spirit gave me a children’s message I’ll never forget.” My guess is that this message meant for children had more impact on adults.

Bob said to one of the children, “Amy, I’d like to give you $10. Would you like that?” Her smile, tinged with a little skepticism answered even though she remained speechless. Bob counted the ten one dollar bills, placing them in her hands. When finished he said, “Amy, this is yours to enjoy any way you wish, but there is one condition.” “What?” Amy asked. “You must give me one dollar back.” Without hesitation (indicating that Amy might become a shrewd business woman?) she handed Bob the dollar bill and, still smiling, rushed back to her parents with nine dollars.

I wonder how I would have responded. No, I wonder how I do respond to God who daily gives me abundance beyond my expectation. Blessed to live in a part of the world that is blessed with resources of which even 90% is more than needed daily, how often do I hesitate to return to the Giver His requested 10%? Sometimes I fall into a bartering mode: “Can’t you settle for less, God?” Sometimes I request a delay: “God, I’ll get it to you when I have adequate resources.” Sometimes I hesitate as I do the math: “God, should it be on my gross or net amount?” Sometimes I question His omnipotence: “God, you don’t understand how hard that 10% is due to my needs in the coming months.” Less than I like to admit is my response rejoicing in the blessing of His gift of 90%. Rare is a response of joy in abundance that results in seeking ways to give 20%, even 30% away (even though I remember the joy of a former parishioner who regularly did this)!

Generosity is really is a matter of the heart. Scripture clearly teaches that tithes, offerings, even our modern concept, philanthropy, are all meant to be a response of thanksgiving to God. It is an acknowledgment that we own nothing, and owe Him obedience as stewards of His provision. It is a way to nurture our relationship with the Master, and an instrumental aspect of discipleship. My typical responses beg the question: is my journey of discipleship less than God intends; is my relationship with the Lord as deep as I think? Is my hesitant attitude in stewardship stifling my growth in the Lord?

Numerous surveys indicate that people of the most generous denominations give an average of 5–6% of their annual income. Christians donate an average of 3–4%, while the general public contributes about 2–4%. These statistics have changed little in fifty years. I wonder what Malachi would have to say about this? What ministry could occur if Christians took seriously our Master’s guidance about our use of His provision? An Empty Tomb study showed in terms of mere dollars needed that if every Christian tithed world hunger could be alleviated. Has God already provided resources for greater mission and ministry, only to have us hold back? Do we think HE will change His mind?

As we enter the New Year, is this the year to consider anew God’s provision and His call upon us as stewards? Maybe this is the year we strive to be like Amy — living as if we really do believe Psalm 24:1 The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it…