It isn’t always easy or convenient to be a good disciple. But, Saint Paul exhorts us in 2 Timothy 4:2, “Be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient.”
Discipleship is not always convenient. It isn’t always easy to be generous. The busyness of everyday family and work life demands our attention. On top of that, our world offers many enticements that act as siren calls to distract us from truly putting God first. But, we are to persist, to persevere, to remain faithful.
What do we get if we do? In my experience of trusting God and stepping out in faith to give courageously, I get the joy and contentment of having more meaning in my life by being a part of something big, something majestic – the mission of the church. I gain a sense of satisfaction about my life by my generosity making an impact for the good of others. And I get peace – the peace that comes by being faithful and obedient to the word of God.
Be intentional and courageous in making stewardship the Ideal for your life. Get this same sense of joy and peace by your persistence in putting God first in your Time management, first in the use of your Talents, and first in how you spend your Treasure. St John of the Cross said, ”Joy is the appropriate attitude with which to give to others because acts of generosity are a source of blessing to the giver as well as the receiver.”
Photo Credit: Robert Davis
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