It is engendered and thrives in the soil of Christianity. For it is
in accordance with--1. _Its Spirit._ It is the spirit of love. The
man who drinks most into the spirit of Christianity will be most
likely to feel such benevolent interest in humanity as will take
practical shapes. It tends to the overthrow of selfishness. It
fosters the spirit of self-sacrifice. 2. _Its Precepts._ We are
commanded to stretch forth the helping hand to those in need. We are
to extend the kingdom of Christ. Gifts and offerings in some form are
demanded by the two great dispensations; by the Gospel no less than
by the Law. He who lives for himself, giving forth nothing, or giving
with grudging hand, has yet to learn the first principles of
Christian obedience. 3. _Its Examples._ The newly formed Church in
Jerusalem. Contributions throughout the churches afterwards for
impoverished Christians there. Above all the example of Christ.
Do not suppose that liberality obtains no recognition. 1. _It becomes
a source of pleasure._ Let any one put this to the test. And the
pleasure is in proportion to the sacrifice it costs (Acts xx. 35).
2. _It is returned in blessing_ (Prov. iii. 9, 10). We cannot explain
how this comes about, because we cannot explain the way of God's
Providence. Everything is in His hands. Can bless or blast your
affairs. It certainly brings spiritual blessing. Exercises, develops,
improves faith, love, self-denial. The indwelling Spirit of God is
manifested in larger measure. Conscience approves. 3. _It will obtain
the final recognition._ It is all recorded. Nothing forgotten,
however little. "Cup of cold water." "Ye have done it unto Me." Let
us strive for that commendation of Jesus, and for His commendation
now, such as that He gave to the widow who gave her mites, and to the
woman who did what she could.--_J. Rawlinson._