Great Generosity

 

In the last reading, I talked about those who may not have financial resources but can be considered wealthy. The example I used was missionaries or those in similar work serving the Lord and others. They are working their dream, their purpose, although the financial reward that often follows others is not theirs. They are indeed the definition of a success-minded person. Jim Rohn said, “Whoever renders service to many puts himself in line for greatness – great wealth, great return, great satisfaction, great reputation, and great joy.”

There are many things to look at when we talk of generosity; however, I wish to focus here on just one, and that is the responsibility of those with wealth to those who serve in missions. 

“Whatever thrift is, it is not avarice.  Avarice is not generous; and, after all,

it is the thrifty people who are generous.”

Archibald Primrose, 5th Earl of Rosebery

1847-1929

Former British Prime Minister

 

Those who feel they have been called to the mission field have a burning passion for bringing the Gospel of Christ to a lost and dying world. They are willing to leave all the comforts and material blessings behind to focus on those they are called to serve. I believe that they should not be spending their valuable time and energy out raising money to do the work they are kept from because they have to be out raising money.

For those of us who achieve our dreams in business, education, the pulpit, medicine, or any other line, we have the advantage of the rewards that achievement brings. For some successful people, wealth has been a great blessing to them. Yet we are all called to reach the world for Christ. The command to go into the entire world is for all of us. For too long, many in the Church have separated the mission field from the workplace. We feel that those who are called have the responsibility to go. Charles Spurgeon said, “If there be anyone part in which the Christian Church ought to keep its fervor at a white heat, it is concerning missions. If there be anything about which we cannot tolerate lukewarmness, it is in the matter of sending the gospel to a dying world.”

Those who cannot go should be supporting those who do. It is a partnership among believers that too often is forgotten by those who have the means to keep it. Leonard Ravenhill sadly said, “Today Christians spend more money on dog food than missions.” Scouts and Scouters know that it is their responsibility to support those on the mission field. Find someone you know and be their most active supporter. It is the least we can do.

I know you are thinking, “What does this have to do with Scouting?” One fundamental principle in life that every Scout must learn is to support something greater than themselves. It can be a great life lesson as well as a blessing for any Scout or Scouter to support a missionary and regular bases. You may think that your small amount will make little difference. Your little difference can make a big difference to someone who is serving on the mission field.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey