Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
Matthew 5:42
Usually when I have read this verse from Matthew, I have thought it meant giving money or food or some other material item—things I have been known to share without complaint. Recently, though, I realized that I am incredibly stingy—and it has nothing to do with riches. I have been blessed with the gift of time, but I rarely use that gift for anyone else’s benefit. I fill up my days with selfish (not bad in any way, but still self-related) activities, and if someone asks me to do something with them, I invariably say, “No, I’m busy.”
Last week, I asked someone to share a bit of their time with me, to listen to my problems. That person said, “Okay.” But not enthusiastically (which was understandable, but at the time, still a little frustrating and sad). I said never mind, but it stuck in my head.
Upon reflection, I realized that person had done the same thing I do when people ask me for my time. It opened my eyes to my selfishness. Thankfully, within a few hours, I had an opportunity to do better. Another friend asked me to call and help with a family problem; if nothing else, sharing that hour of my time showed I cared.
As God is the one who sustains my life, every minute belongs to Him; therefore giving time to someone in need is a small attempt to repay my Creator.
I loved your comment, “within a few hours, I had an opportunity to do better”. That realization of having acted selfishly with my time cuts to the heart, and I think, “I did it again.” But rather than beat myself up about it (a selfish act of its own), I will try to remember that He WILL give me an opportunity to do better. Thanks, Becky!
I agree, Becky Laben — I have found that focusing on others and their needs (and in this world, there will always be plenty of ways to help) can help keep me from negative overthinking about myself. Have a great day! –Becky O.
The gift of time is the greatest gift. Like you, I didn’t realize how my answers could hurt someone else until I reached out and found others didn’t have time. It feels like such a small thing yet it is the greatest gift because it means we care. I am grateful that our Lord God always has time to listen!!
good point! We always think we are more busy than anyone else!
Thanks! You make a really good point about the importance of sharing our time.
Thank you!