By Generosity We Shall Stand Isaiah 32 gives us deep insight into the true meaning of generosity. We need these truths today.
By Doug Beacham
DOUG BEACHAM is the presiding bishop of the IPHC. He has served in various roles in the church including Georgia Conference Superintendent, executive director of Church Education Ministries, and executive director of World Missions Ministries. You can follow Bishop Beacham on Facebook or Twitter @DougBeacham.
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continue to reflect on the theme, “What is the Holy Spirit teaching us in the year 2020?” We live with the COVID-19 pandemic, and in the United States we face a contentious election year. We are also inundated by the voices of lament, demands and violence related to historic racial tensions. It is easy for us to feel overwhelmed, discouraged, confused and frightened. I also find myself also reflecting on what the Holy Spirit has spoken to the IPHC. We must remember we are “A Place of Hope and a People of Promise.” We are called to live by the power of the Holy Spirit, and we believe our seven core values reflect such a life. We are also called to face the future with a vision and hope called Arise 2033. There is an interesting word used in Isaiah 32:5, 8. It’s the Hebrew word nadib, which is translated “liberal” in the King James Version and “generous” in the New King James Version. The Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon also defines it as “honorable, noble.” As a noun it means “free-will offering, voluntariness,” (Exodus 35:29; Psalm 110:3). My heart has been stirred as I have studied Isaiah 32 and the use of this word. In light of our core value of generosity, here are some thoughts as we live in these difficult times, preparing for a different future.
1. God calls us to be sensitive to the needs of others. Isaiah 32 contrasts leaders who reign in righteousness and justice (see 32:14 and16-20), with those who live foolishly by neglect and abuse of the poor (32:5-7). There is a strong rebuke against “women who are at ease” (32:9, 11),
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