Limits of Legalism

(Proverbs 31:20 KJV)  She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

The Godly woman, and of course all children of God, reaches out.  She does not wait for someone to come begging.  She “stretcheth” (extends NASB) (6566) her “hand” (3027).  There should be an innate generosity in Christians.  When we see someone in need we have a need, a need to share.  If we don’t have it on an emotional level then we should be developing it on an intellectual level.  That is where I find myself.  I tend to be lacking in mercy which means I need to be extra sensitive.

In English “reacheth forth” (stretches NASB) (7971) is a bit more extreme than just extending.  I am not sure if this qualifies the amount or the effort.  Again, in my case it should be both.  We have practiced tithing all our married life.  We are now having a disagreement on whether giving to para-church organizations can be done with the tithe or whether it is an offering.  We need to get beyond the limits of legalism and give in to obedience.

So?  If you are blessed with generosity then be thankful.  If you are not, join me in trying to develop more sensitivity to those in need.