Here are some final thoughts on the quote from Jesus, “It is better to give than to receive.” This post is following-up on the idea that there is a 3X the blessing in giving because you first receive, second develop, and third give.
In the previous two posts we talked about teaching. First you learn, then you combine what you know with this new information, and then you share it with someone else. You benefit from learning, you benefit from processing, and you benefit from giving.
Here is another example I like that shows the 3X increase. You met someone new and benefit from the new relationship. You develop that relationship, getting to know the person and sharing adventures. You benefit from a growing relationship. Then, you introduce that person to another one of your friends. Blessings all around!
The struggle, I think, is when you apply this principle to money. For some reason, some people think we should not benefit from money. However, the same 3X factor applies to money and material resources. Let’s say you receive a gift of $100. You could just give the entire amount to someone else. That would be a 2X benefit.
Instead, let’s say you have some computer skills, so you buy an old computer for $100 and a few extra parts. You spend a few days fixing up the computer and adding new programs. Then, you donate the computer, now worth $400 to your local charity. Do you see how you can add value to what you have received, and then bless others with this improved gift?
Some people feel like our monetary giving is limited to “giving back to God” our 10% tithe. No thought, no added value, no personal investment … just put your money in the plate and you’re finished. Not that I’m opposed to tithing. But, I hope that people will begin to see the power of personal investment in their giving. Receive, invest/improve/increase, then give.
You do a great job living out your theory of giving back in away to reinvest yourself into others in hopes that they will do the same.
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