“He that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat.”

“He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack; but he that hideth his eye shall have many a curse.”

“Cast thy bread upon the waters, for thou shall find it after many days.”

“If thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul, the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones.  And thou shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.”

“He which soweth bountifully, shall reap also bountifully.”

“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, nor of necessity, for

GOD LOVETH A CHEERFUL GIVER.

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HOW THE LORD BLESSES THOSE “WHO GIVE LIBERALLY TO HIS CAUSE.

A disciple of the Lord Jesus, poor in this world’s goods, but rich in faith, became greatly perplexed in regard to the meaning of the forty-second verse of the fifth chapter of Matthew.  The words are:  “Give to him that asketh thee; and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.”  After a season of prolonged mental inquiry, as to whether the language was to be regarded as literal or not, she suddenly paused and exclaimed:  “It is easy enough to find out; test it and see.”

It was Saturday.  Her money, all but two dollars, had been expended in providing for the Sabbath.  The amount left, which was absolutely needed for the following Monday, she put in her pocket, and went out.

On the street, a friend, whose husband had been for some time out of business, met her and stated their distresses, and asked if she could lend them two dollars to last over the Sabbath.

She was surprised.  The test had come sooner than she expected, but, without hesitation, the money was “lent to the Lord," and the now penniless believer went home to wait and see.

Now mark the result.  Monday came, and with it the needs to be supplied.  While pondering what course to pursue, a knock was heard, and, on opening the door, a lady, with a bundle in her hand, inquired if she could do a little work for her.  Replying in the affirmative, and naming the price, the lady took from her pocket-book two dollars, and handed it to her, saying:  “It is more than you ask, but you might as well have it.”  “I was never more astonished,” said this true disciple, “and literally shouted for joy.  I had tested and proved that the promises of God are yea and amen in Christ Jesus.  Glory to God.  I have never doubted since; and though often in straits, I have always been delivered.”

Would it not be well for Christians to “test” where they cannot understand?  “Ye are my friends,” said the blessed Lord, “if ye do whatsoever I command you.”  Obedience will solve difficulties that reasoning cannot unravel.  Try and see.