Epistle 419
George Fox encourages believers to give to the poor cheerfully, remembering that it is a means to keep the mind focused on the Lord and to experience God's provision.
George Fox emphasizes the importance of generosity towards the poor, suggesting that instead of lavish dinners, Friends should consider providing for widows, fatherless, and those in need, as this act would be pleasing to God and a way to keep their minds focused on the Lord. He encourages cheerful giving, reminding that those who give to the poor are lending to the Lord and will be repaid. Fox believes that regardless of the amount given, God will ensure that they do not lack by the end of the year.
Text
Dear friends,--Something was upon me to write unto you, that such among Friends, who marry, and provide great dinners, that instead thereof, it will be of a good savour on such occasions, that they may be put in mind at such times, to give something to the poor that be widows and fatherless, and such like, to make them a feast, or to refresh them.
And this, I look upon, would be a very good savour, to feast the poor that cannot feast you again [Luke 14:13]; and would be a good practice and example, and would be a means to keep the mind to the Lord; and in remembrance of the poor; for 'they that give to the poor, lend to the Lord, and the Lord will repay them [Prov 19:17].' And I do really believe, whatever they give, less or more, according to their ability, cheerfully, they will not have the less at the year's end, for the Lord loves a cheerful giver [2 Cor 9:7]. . . . <310> . . .
G. F.
Sermon Outline
- A New Perspective on Giving
- The Practice of Giving
- The Lord's Reward
- The Lord Loves a Cheerful Giver
- The Lord Repays Generously
- Remembering the Lord
Key Quotes
“they that give to the poor, lend to the Lord, and the Lord will repay them [Prov 19:17].” — George Fox
“the Lord loves a cheerful giver [2 Cor 9:7].” — George Fox
“to feast the poor that cannot feast you again [Luke 14:13]” — George Fox
Application Points
- Make giving to the poor a priority in your life, and do it cheerfully.
- Remember that giving to the poor is a means to keep your mind focused on the Lord.
- Trust that the Lord will repay you generously for your cheerful giving.