You know what has happened throughout the province of Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached—how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how He went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with Him. Acts 10:37-38
“A recent study found that wealthier individuals were more willing to give, and donated more money to a charity, when the appeals from that charity emphasized personal agency and the pursuit of individual goals, such as by saying things like… “Sometimes, one person needs to come forward and take individual action. This is one of those times. Take individual action. Donate today.”
Less wealthy individuals, on the other hand, were more likely to give in response to appeals that highlighted communion and the pursuit of shared goals, such as “Let’s save a life together” or “Sometimes, one community needs to come forward and support a common goal. This is one of those times. Join your community. Donate today.“
This suggests that encouraging generosity across the socioeconomic spectrum may be more successful if the messages take into consideration the kinds of appeals that resonate with more versus less wealthy individuals.”
Summer Allen in “The Science of Generosity” White Paper produced by the Greater Good Science Center.
John and I spoke to a group of 30 youth on Stewardship and Generosity yesterday. I loved the theme at the church on the wall: one 2 ten. It means each one will try to share the gospel in a year with ten people.
It fit perfectly with our remarks to use your Gifts and Goods to make known the Gospel. See the header photo of the inside of the church in Grand Cayman above.
Then in my study, I read today’s Scripture which described Jesus as going “around doing good” and it had impact on people because “God was with Him.” The same can be true of us, but only if we act.
Will we use our gifts and deploy our goods to make known the gospel or will we stay on the sofa with our money in the bank. Seriously, where do you fit in this picture?
Then I read this research. It inspired me to give a shout to readers to act individually and collectively. To step forward, like Jesus, and do good. Take action with what you have.
Use your wealth to shape the future of your community or give to GTP and impact a country. We estimate the cost at about $10,000. Or combine your gift with the gifts of others. Both ways can make an impact.
So whether you have a lot or a little, go around doing good. If you have a lot, lead the way. If you have a little, give in community with others. And know that God will be with you, but only if you take action.
GTP enters Liberia today and I have learned of opportunities in Nepal and Pakistan. Will we pursue them? Not yet. We are praying for the funds. Step up. Give today. Reply and I can tell you what is needed.