December 23, 2021 WWJWMTD by Steve, the son of John

The Giving of Gifts

Jesus talked about giving, and the Bible also has lots to say about how and what to give to others. Sometimes we get it right and other times we fail miserably. I like to give; in fact, I look for ways to give, but I am selective on what, how, and to whom I give. Nevertheless, there is one type of giving Christians need to pay close attention to!

Proverbs 13:22 states, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.” (KJV)

Too often we think this verse refers to money or possessions. However, that is not true. Just as Jesus spoke of natural things in the Gospels to make a spiritual truth understandable or to hide it from people trying to understand God’s truth, so was the Book of Proverbs written using ‘everyday truths’ to hide and illustrate the activity of the Holy Spirit. Proverbs uses natural common truths to illustrate spiritual truths.

Yes, it is OK and good to give of your wealth or possessions to family and others but Proverbs 13:22 is speaking of spiritual things—spiritual giving. It is speaking of how we allow the Holy Spirit to give our spiritual inheritance & spiritual possessions to others in our passing.

The chapter of faith (Hebrews chapter 11) is a great example of such giving. Whatever God has placed in our lives—whatever that which is good and comes from God, the Holy Spirit is to pass it along to our children and grandchildren. This is what God wants to do and it is one of the many duties/jobs of the Holy Spirit.

So, during this Christmas season, do not be lacking in faith or the love of the Spirit. Ask God, believe in God, and expect the Holy Spirit to show you how to give whatever God has placed in your life (all and any spiritual gifts) to be passed on to the generations that will be following you.

(Don’t understand or need clarification to this truth, email me/ask me your question. I have personally experienced this concept and it will not automatically happen just because you are a Christian. It is an act of faith and will not be the same for everyone. I what you to understand the wisdom of God nor fail God in any way especially when it comes to ‘the giving of gifts’.)

WWJWMTD

What would Jesus want me to do?

Dr. Steven J. Wentland www.wwjwmtd.com

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