In the Old Testament (Hebrew) there are 899 different words for the word give, and there are 243 different words in the New Testament (Greek). In our vernacular we would just minimize it to handing something over, but each rendition of the word “give” reveals what is being given. The most popular terms of the two languages reflect the term “surrender” in the OT and “to grant” in the NT. That’s interesting picture to think about.
The Old Testament is a repetitive calls Israel to surrender to God’s Word so He can lead and bless Israel. In the New Testament follows up with the power that is granted to us through the Spirit of God after we surrender.
2 Tim. 1:6-10
In verse 6 Paul’s words to Timothy were to fan into flame which could also be translated “reactivate”. Our belief in the gospel should be with us everyday, but sometimes we forget to cognitively choose to glorify God with our life and as a result we neglect to give freely.
My challenge is simple one for you today. Pay attention to what you are giving to others. A true thanksgiving is a confession of personal praise. Someone who does this well never leaves it merely words, but a lifestyle that produces joy as well as giving joy to others.