October 27
Scripture: 2 Cor 11:7
Source author: Mark Littleton
October 27
Expecting Nothing in Return Was I wrong when I humbled myself and honored you by preaching God’s Good News to you without expecting anything in return? —2 Corinthians 11:7
The young man wore only a thin coat. It was snowing out. I happened to be in the church working when the secretary told me he’d come in looking for a handout. When I met him, I asked if he was hungry. He said, “Kind of.” So we walked to my house and I gave him some spaghetti. We talked more and I found out he needed $40 to get home. “I’m looking for a new start.” That seemed a perfect in-road to sharing the Gospel, so I did. Finally, he said, “I know you believe those things, but I’m really not ready to believe in God or Jesus.” After we talked a bit longer, I gave him the $40 he needed as he left. Later, I thought about what I’d done. Was it a waste of my money? Had he used it instead for drugs or alcohol? I have learned that while people may use our gifts in ways we wouldn’t approve, God knows our hearts. He values the love of a giving heart, and He will ultimately reward us for that love and kindness we show others.
There is only one reward for sharing love, money, and help with others: God’s pleasure. — Mark Littleton —