Embrace the Within no. 164

If you lend [money] to those from whom you expect to receive [it back], what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners expecting to receive back the same amount. But love [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for] your enemies, and do good, and lend, [or not despairing at all] expecting nothing in return; for your reward will be great (rich, abundant), and you will be sons of the Most High; because He Himself is kind and gracious and good to the ungrateful and the wicked.

Luke 6:34-35 AMP

One lesson I learned early on from my father about money was to never lend money that I expected to get back. And I have lived by that understanding about money for quite some time. If I don’t have it to spare, if I can’t do without that money, then I shouldn’t be giving it out. And I have seen very little of the money I have handed out come back to me. I often find that this is not the mindset of everyone. The idea of giving and doing good for the sake of it being good is a strange concept in the world. I am not sure what good money is going to do you to hoard and hold. I don’t know why folks want something in return for giving and helping. I was never raised with that outlook.

Love, lend, do good and expect nothing in return. Nothing. Not a handshake, not a hug, not a plaque, not a shoutout, nothing. Do good for the sake of it being the right thing to do. Sounds crazy to the world. And it will get you weird looks and puzzled remarks. Nothing is more confusing to selfishness than acts that are unselfish.

I pray that I am unselfish with what I have. I pray that even in the small things and especially in the greater things I have a heart of giving and thanksgiving. I pray that my example of unselfishness gives joy and peace to those around me. I pray that my example of doing good spreads His love and joy throughout my community.

I love you. I forgive you. Have a blessed and abundant day!

#ThinkBetter #BeBetter #NoKingButChrist #EmbraceTheWithin #NotMyWayYHWH