On being generous...

Guess what was staring at me in the face when I arrived home from school today?

A blessing from Ben's parents... @_@ ~ a 7kg Panasonic washing machine.

I nearly pengsan-ed when his mum happily called me at lunch-time to tell me that she was going give me a surprise. Dahlah I was surprised with her call, I blankly asked, "What surprise?"

"I got you a washing machine! Now you study... not so much time to wash clothes..." (I could honestly hear a grin in her voice...)

"WHAT?!?!?" ~_~

I was so shocked that I had to quickly sit down to keep myself from falling down side-ways in front of my friends. Felt so humbled. Earlier this week, God had challenged me to be gracious and generous with what He has already provided me with. For those of you who know now my source of provisions each month, this has been a thoroughly difficult exercise. (Sometimes, I can be a woman of such little faith.)

Well, who said that the discipline of the Lord is painless? But He disciplines those He loves...according to His Word.

Approaching the weekend, He had someone model that generosity to me. Someone, who loved me enough to generously channel God's provisions to me, out of what she could have used on herself... Knowing that I could not possibly pay her back for it, she still gave in faith. The very best she could give. *Sobs*

Even though she had really wanted a new washing machine herself. *Sobsssss*

I'm really ashamed of myself. I seriously am.

I've always wished I had a washing machine since I moved into my dear little apartment. Hand-washing my clothes in a tiny bathroom, with a not-so-big pail has been not only harsh on my back, but my hands... I've never dared to ask God for a washing machine - but He had already known the desires of my heart before I asked (if I was ever going to ask). And in love, He provided. Thank You, Lord!

Love is a generous thing. God so loved the world that He gave... and it wasn't something that cost Him little. It cost Him His only begotten Son.

Father, teach me to love others with Your kind of love... A love that gives...