The yearly studies were released again yesterday about the generosity of Americans. It was broken down by county all across the nation. Conservative, rural, poor, counties were the most generous as far as percentage of giving of one’s income. The state of Mississippi, the poorest state in the nation, was the most generous as a percentage of income. Overall, the south in general is far more generous than other parts of the nation.
There is always debate as to why. Religion is the number one reason given. Studies found that the religious give more not only to the churches they attend but to other organizations and more importantly they take care of each other. There are always exceptions to the rule; where the non religious are generous and some religious people are down right scrooges. But the pattern is obvious. When we experience forgiveness and we understand the sacrifice of Christ, along with obedience to scripture we will give. We will give to the church, we will give to missions, we will give to others, on a regular basis.
No where in scripture is the accumulation of wealth prohibited. No where in scripture is poverty an excuse for not giving. What is seen in scripture is that God loves a cheerful giver. It’s not the amount, it’s the heart. But I will make this promise to you. The closer you get to Christ the more you will give.
Trust me, try me, prove me, says the Lord and see if I will not pour out my blessings upon you.