Tuesday, November 5, 2013

The Gift, The Loan, The "Lift" - and What the Bible Says...

Just want to take a moment to speak on the above and their definitions. And what the Bible says.

Gift:

A monetary blessing that is freely given, with no expectation of repayment. Case closed, no further discussion. Hallelujah.

Loan:

A monetary exchange, where the lender and borrower agree to both the amount, terms and time of repayment.

"Lift":

This term was defined to me by my dear cousin several years ago - and it's beautiful. This is a monetary blessing that is bestowed upon the borrower, at the borrower's request, but the requester will not be required to repay, if he or she is unable.  My cousin explained that she and her husband always consider whether or not the loan is something they have no problem parting with - forever. So the borrower is not held responsible, and there are no ill feelings.

In my lifetime, I have been the recipient of all three...as well as the giver. But one note of extreme importance that I must add:

A GIFT NEVER BECOMES A LOAN, WHEREBY THE GIVER REQUESTS THE MONEY BACK!

If the giver finds him/herself in dire straits after they have bestowed a monetary blessing upon someone - and they now require financial help.... they should:

1. Seek assistance from someone other than the one they just helped, or;
2. Ask the gift recipient for help, stipulating the two situations are completely separate... and not to be construed as repayment of the gift. (so the need amount being requested is not the same as the amount of the aforementioned gift!)

The above is my humble opinion. But the Bible is even MORE in-depth than I - concerning the appropriate state of mind and heart of the LENDER! 

"And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful." Luke 6:34-36 

Thankful for God's mercy and His grace today. I'm sure I can get a witness! Amen!



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