I saw in my mind a grocery store check-out line. Many people bustling about, carts full to the rim and clerks rapidly swiping items across their check lanes. I noticed that each cart had one of those small “hand-carry” baskets inside with various things in them in addition to the items in the main cart.
As I approached the counter for better observation I overheard the clerk say, “Thank you for your generous donation!” as they handed the items from the small basket to the customer. “OH NO!” was the immediate response, “the items in the small basket was my donation…not MY groceries!”
In a moment, with one awkward encounter, truth revealed. A heart willing to give–but only a little.
Then I heard the Holy Spirit whisper, “Only a token amount–the same measure many give to Me.”
OUCH. Then it occurred to me:
He’s not just talking about material things and feeding the poor. He’s talking about our token willingness toward Him, His call, and our willingness toward forgiveness, kindness, goodness, mercy to others–our “measure”–in addition to our cloak, our sandals, and the length we are willing to go.
I grieved in my heart. I suddenly realized that we so easily see with our “I’s”, instead of our eyes. It was as if I could see a giant stone “I” firmly standing between me and Jesus.
I heard in my spirit, “Move your “I” out of the way and come “see” Me–I hold your answers. Don’t give the little basket to those who have hurt you, give your enemies (those who spitefully use you) abundance! Not for their sake–for YOURS! I see. I will reward openly! Watch your measure. Give ALL to Me.”
Then Luke 6 came roaring into my heart. It is a powerful chapter, but for brevity’s sake I will only quote verse 38 here:
“Give and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” KJV.
In other words: Your measure is just that: YOUR MEASURE.
I’m not sure about you, but I’m ditching my measuring spoons and moving on to dump trucks! 🙂
With love and expectancy in Him,
Sheila
