Openhearted Generosity | Joni and Friends
Openhearted Generosity
“Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain.”
Psalm 119:36
Phyllis is a Christian widow with a beautiful home and a large space to rent. When she met Nadine, a potential renter, and found out that Nadine was a believer too, Phyllis was so excited that she offered a rock-bottom rental fee.
Nadine, however, firmly but politely declined. It was a large space in a beautiful home, and Nadine didn’t want to pay the heavily discounted amount. Instead, she thought it was important to pay for what the space was actually worth. Phyllis was shocked—but delighted—by Nadine’s counteroffer. It spoke of Nadine’s generosity, her sense of fairness, and a Christlike attitude, all of which touched Phyllis in a powerful way.
Today’s Scripture reads, “Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain.” In other words, selfish actions and thoughts come easily for us; we need the supernatural help of God to respond with openhearted generosity.
Father, I understand that with many people I will only have one chance to make a first impression for you. Turn my heart toward what pleases you and honors you rather than toward what benefits me. Remind me by your Holy Spirit to be generous and patient with others, as you have been so exceedingly generous and patient with me.
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