People make money. Older people and younger people. Some make a lot and some make a little. Some run companies and some deliver newspapers. And many do a whole bunch of other things.

But WHY do we make money?

Well, sure, we make money to provide for our needs. It’s nice to have food, clothes, gas for the car, and the latest download from your favourite band.

But consider this. In Ephesians 4:28, Paul says, “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.”

Let me repeat that last part: “that they may have something to share with those in need.”

Those who had been stealing were not only supposed to work, but they were to do it SO THAT they could share with those in need.

I think this applies to the rest of us as well. We work and make money SO THAT we can share and be generous with those in need.

It makes sense, really. If every good gift is from God, and if God cares for all his children, and if God invites Jesus’ followers to be his hands and feet, why wouldn’t he use us and give us the opportunity to provide for other kids in the family.

Generosity is the gift you give and get at the same time.

By Matthew Ruttan

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.