How Much, How Often--

Robert F. Turner

There is nothing more completely opposed to the true spirit of Chris­tianity than the attitude back of the questions, How much, how many, how often, must I serve the Lord? It is appalling that some would argue such.

Years back a man handed me a paper which listed his income, rent, food bill, utilities, etc.; and said, Now you have the facts. Tell me, how much must I give to the Lord? I asked if he thought he should visit the sick, help the needy; and when he said he did, I asked, How often?

He seemed a bit puzzled, so I sug­gested 50 times per week — and he thought he would do well to get in that many calls. But I persisted: On Saturday afternoon when you have just made your fiftieth call and are on your way home, you meet a brother who is destitute, obviously worthy, and you have the means to assist him. Do you say, Im sorry I can not help you now. I have made my 50 for this week-- but hang on, drink water, and Ill see you first thing Monday. (?) How does one measure service that is patterned after Gods love for us? If a fellow just must have figures or percents, he should be given them from the scriptures; like 100% — all that she had, even all her living. (Mk. 12:44) Or, Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple. (Lu. 14:33) Are you amazed? (Matt. 19:25—f)

A genuine Christian does not dole out an hour or two, a few dollars, or a pound of mercy for God. He first gives himself (2 Cor. 8:5 Matt. 16:24) and from then on his service is limited only by ability and opportunity. Thats the meaning of as prospered (1 Cor. 16:2) i.e., in keeping with what God has given you. God gave life to Stephen, and when the service of God called for it, Stephen gave it back to God. (Acts 7:59)

When Jesus said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind (Matt. 22:37); He left no place for and 10% of thy money, and one hour per week of thy time. I be­lieve Jesus will go fishing with you (Lu. 5:4—f); but dont forget, you are doing it on His time.

Robert F. Turner has released the Plain Talk to the Public Domain. Following his initiative and desire, all material on this page is also released to the Public Domain. This includes content, as well as graphics, formatting, and styling. Brother Turner wants his material to help as many Christians and lost souls as possible. Therefore, we offer no restriction, so that we may facilitate the broadest possible circulation for the greater good.