After completing Air Force basic training in 1970, I received a pay grade increase to $60/month. There
were no worries about money since there was no money to worry about. Regardless of how much or
how little money we have, it is our thankfulness and generosity that really matter. Our blessings extend
way beyond our material possessions and bank account and include more important things like good
health, family relationships and especially our salvation.


In Psalm 106:1-15 the psalmist paints a vivid picture of the Israelites’ relationship over the years which
may also depict, at least to some extent, the history of our Christian life. When we begin to experience
God’s grace, gratitude is the natural and appropriate response which was the case with the Israelites as
the psalmist notes in verse 1. But in verses 6 and 7 we read, “We have sinned with our fathers, we have
committed iniquity, we have done wickedly. Our fathers understood not thy wonders in Egypt; they
remembered not the multitude of thy mercies; but provoked him at the sea, even the Red sea.”
However, verse 8 starts with the word, ‘nevertheless’, and goes on to describe in this verse and in the
following two how God saved them, led them, and redeemed them. But in verse 14 the psalmist points
out the Israelites’ dissatisfaction with the Lord’s provision and their ‘exceeding lust in the wilderness’.
Let us not follow the Israelites’ behavior and attitude. Rather than craving more, may we enjoy and be
thankful to God for what we have through his grace and kindness.


One of the best ways to thank God for his grace is through our giving. In 2 Corinthians 9 Paul gives a
number of reasons to give generously:


1. What we give to the Lord multiplies. “But this I say, he which soweth sparingly shall also reap
sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.” (v. 6)


2. Generosity leads to happiness. “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him
give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” (v. 7)


3. Giving meets people’s needs. “For the administration of the service not only supplieth the want
of the saints but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God.” (v. 12)


We need to always remember that our giving is a response to God’s gift and his amazing grace. His
indescribable gift is the gift of his Son who has provided for our eternal life. May the Lord give us
boldness and a sense of urgency to share the John 3:16 gospel message with others.