Which other scriptures emphasize giving without expecting repayment? An Echo of Luke 6:34—The Call to Give Freely Luke 6:34 reminds us, “And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you?” Scripture doesn’t leave this idea isolated; it threads the same heartbeat of no-strings-attached generosity all through both Testaments. Old Testament Foundations—Open-Handed Living “You are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs… Give generously to him and do not let your heart be grieved when you do so. And because of this the LORD your God will bless you.” “They are ever generous and quick to lend, and their children are a blessing.” “Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender.” “Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again. Give a portion to seven, yes to eight, for you do not know what disaster may come upon the land.” Wisdom’s Promise—Generosity Produces Increase “One gives freely, yet gains even more… A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Jesus Expands the Vision “Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father… will reward you.” “Freely you have received; freely give.” “Invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind… they cannot repay you, and you will be blessed. You will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” Early Church—Generosity in Action Believers “shared everything they had… There were no needy ones among them.” “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Paul’s Letters—Cheerful, Faith-Filled Giving “If the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has.” “Whoever sows generously will also reap generously… God loves a cheerful giver… He will supply and multiply your store of seed.” Mere words without meeting needs “what good is that?” Living It Today Scripture paints a single, vibrant picture: God’s people open their hands without calculating return. Trusting His promise to “repay the lender,” we give, lend, invite, and share—confident that any “reward” is safely kept in His hands, both now and in eternity. |
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