Givers & Gatherers

Two weeks ago, I shared with you about the Buchanan, Liberia Christmas Celebration for the children there in the feeding center. Bottom line is in 10 days, 12 men gave gifts totaling the goal of $3200. Now, before you bail on me because you think I’m going to talk about raising funds again, please read on, because this post is about far more than dollars. I’m back to men’s principles today.

1—Every project I have ever raised money for in my ministry, I committed the entire amount would be sent from the start, regardless of the total raised. Over the years, I have supplemented thousands of dollars out of my general fund to make up the totals. That’s not a complaint, just a fact. But this time, and the first time, God decided for me to only be the catalyst for others. I made the commitment, I shared the need, God moved, and 12 men showed up with it all. There are times in our lives when we are the gatherer and times when we are the giver. Both roles are necessary for the need to be met.

2—I received an email from one of the donors after the fact telling me the total gift he had sent was given by being split 3 equal ways—he and his 2 sons. He read the blog to his guys and they jumped on board and the synergy this dad experienced was worth far more than the gift given. Cool how that works. God always has more in mind to accomplish when we think it’s just about us meeting a need. What if that dad hadn’t responded or hadn’t read it to his sons? All 3 would have missed an opportunity to bring them together in a unique way. That is not about money.

3—From one man who gave $10 to another who gave $1100 and the other 10 in the middle, it took all of them to hit the number. But if just one guy hadn’t responded, the total wouldn’t have been hit. Every man counted. There’s an old saying that goes: “The world is changed by those who show up.” How often do we decide to not give even our “$10” because we decide it won’t matter. In God’s economy, it always matters! When He calls, He only asks us to show up with whatever we have, no matter much is in our pockets. (Just ask the kid with the brown bagger of bread and fish.)

4—I promise you there were also men who read that post 2 weeks ago, had an open heart to give but God told them this wasn’t their thing. That is just as much obedience as the guy who is open, hears, and gives. Everything that comes at us isn’t ours. That’s why we let God lead. He knows best who He wants for every job in His Kingdom. Hearing a no is just as valuable as hearing a yes. The key is always in asking Him.

This passage is typically used for financial coercion but read what it actually says.

Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” —2 Corinthians 9:6-7 NLT

Here’s some follow-up questions to consider:

1—In your own circles, where is God calling you to be the gatherer and where is He asking you to be a giver?

2—Who are you supposed to share God’s opportunities with to unify others for a blessing?

3—Where is God calling you to “show up” no matter how much you have in your hand?

4—Where are you saying yes or no before you’re asking God?