When we give in the right way, we obtain good things in return. On the contrary, we can attract wrong things when we give grudgingly, or out of ill motives.
Dorcas was a generous giver. Her generosity sparked compassion in Peter's heart which caused him to pray her back from the dead -
Acts 9:36-42
A woman who was a follower lived in the city of Joppa. Her name was Tabitha, or Dorcas. She did many good things and many acts of kindness. One day she became sick and died. After they had washed her body, they laid her in a room on the second floor. The city of Lydda was near Joppa.
The followers heard that Peter was at Lydda and sent two men to ask him to come at once. Peter went back with them. When he came, they took him to the room. All the women whose husbands had died were standing around crying. They were showing the clothes Dorcas had made while she was with them.
Peter made them all leave the room. Then he got down on his knees and prayed. He turned to her body and said, “Tabitha, get up!” She opened her eyes and looked at Peter and sat up. He took her by the hand and lifted her up. Then he called in the faithful followers and the women whose husbands had died. He gave her to them, a living person.
News of this went through all Joppa. Many people put their trust in the Lord.
The generosity shown by Dorcas paid off and caused her to live longer. However Ananias and Saphirra died prematurely because they gave deceptively. Acts 5:1-11
How we give will determine which returns we shall receive. The Lord rewards honest and cheerful givers. Just as Paul urged the Church of Corinth, so do I urge each and everyone - I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving.
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