Those of you who have been following this blog over the last year know that giving is one of its central themes. In light of the season we are in, I lay it on thicker. I searched the scriptures for this one, though. Recently, the Lord asked me to do something that I was not comfortable with (big surprise), so I needed to pray on it and consult His word.

Brief recap on giving. It’s mentioned more times in the Bible than you think. All Christians are called to give in various ways—the tithe being foremost (10 percent of your income….you can debate on whether that applies to gross or net, but I don’t think that God is as pressed about it). My husband and I tithe off our net income—what we bring home and have in our pockets. The Lord calls us ALL to tithe to our churches (check scriptures before you disagree). If you don’t attend a church, pray and ask Him where He would like to see that support go (you’ll probably be led to a church, a Christian ministry, or other charitable organization). We are asked to tithe even when money is tight—I don’t think God minds if we occasionally skip a month for good reason, but we should make efforts to give regularly.

Anything you give over and above the tithe is considered offering unto the Lord. It can be anything—old clothes, new clothes, canned goods, more cash, a ride to work, etc. What you give to others also glorifies our Father in Heaven.

Some of us, as I’ve discussed in prior posts, are anointed with the spiritual gift of giving (Romans 12), which means that we are called to give much more than the tithe. That will look different for everyone. Some will give a lot of their time. Others, resources. Those who have this gift enjoy blessing others in various ways. I certainly do. It’s not hard for us to part with what we have (because we know that everything we have is given by Him, belongs to Him, comes back to us handsomely, and feels really good).

But it’s not as easy when the Lord tells us to give to people who treat us poorly or are unkind (remember the “blessing your enemies” references throughout the Bible). In fact, it’s downright hard. Naturally, we love to give on our terms—to have some say in the “who, what, where, when, and why.” But the Lord will often ask us to give for His reasons, some of which make little sense (to us).

I have often given things to a lady who comes into my home (service provider) to use for her young daughter, no strings attached (I still pay her fee). She has appreciated the gestures. However, she’s not the nicest person. I sometimes feel like she has a chip on her shoulder toward me. We don’t attend the same church, but I know people who attend church with her who say that she seldom speaks to them, smiles, or says “hello.”

I sometimes buy holiday gifts for those who regularly service our home/property. This year, the Lord told me a couple of times to gift the woman a really nice item (that once belonged to my daughter, new condition). This is in addition to the gift card that I usually give her for Christmas. In light of a recent exchange with her, I struggle with this request. I often feel like I have to walk on egg shells and find myself avoiding her stern presence.

When I retorted, “Why, Lord, are you asking me to keep giving to her??” he responded with, “Because she’s had a hard life.”

Here’s the thing. I was wrong for even asking Him for a reason. When the Lord tells us to do something, we should be quick to obey…with enthusiasm and graciousness. But I’ve been generous to this woman a lot and also confused as to why He keeps asking me to keep giving.

Am I completely satisfied with His answer? Not really. We all have pain in our pasts, but that’s not a license to be unkind to people. Do I believe Him? Sure. I am a compassionate person and trust Him. If He says she’s had a hard life, she has. People deserve breaks.

When I gave her the item, she was appreciative. It felt good. I had peace. Not because she was nice and receptive in that moment. But because the Lord asked me to do something for Him and I obeyed.

How is He asking you to give of yourself this holiday season? It might be easy. It might be hard. Regardless, honor Him. The rewards for obedience are great.