Seeking Opportunities for Generosity By Rooted Africa
Jonathan Edwards had guarded against pride in knowledge (Resolution 12) and pursued truth diligently (Resolution 11). Now he turned outward: actively seeking ways to give and show charity.
Resolution 13
"Resolved, to be endeavoring to find out fit objects of charity and liberality."
In simple terms, Edwards resolved to continually look for worthy people or causes deserving of generosity and kindness, making it a deliberate, ongoing pursuit. This resolution reflects the gospel's call to love neighbour as self (Mark 12:31). Edwards wanted his life marked by proactive benevolence, not passive waiting for opportunities.Why This Matters TodayGenerosity is often reactive—we give when asked or when we feel moved. Edwards makes it proactive: train the eye to spot needs. In a world of inequality and isolation, intentional charity glorifies God, reflects His grace, and blesses others.2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”Applying Resolution 13 Practically
Resolution 13
"Resolved, to be endeavoring to find out fit objects of charity and liberality."
In simple terms, Edwards resolved to continually look for worthy people or causes deserving of generosity and kindness, making it a deliberate, ongoing pursuit. This resolution reflects the gospel's call to love neighbour as self (Mark 12:31). Edwards wanted his life marked by proactive benevolence, not passive waiting for opportunities.Why This Matters TodayGenerosity is often reactive—we give when asked or when we feel moved. Edwards makes it proactive: train the eye to spot needs. In a world of inequality and isolation, intentional charity glorifies God, reflects His grace, and blesses others.2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”Applying Resolution 13 Practically
- Daily lookout: Ask: “Who around me needs help today?” (a colleague, neighbor, stranger).
- In resources: Regularly scan budget/time for ways to give—money, skills, encouragement.
- In community: Seek out overlooked needs (widows, orphans, the poor, missionaries).
- Habit: Keep a running list of “fit objects” and review weekly.
- Am I actively seeking ways to give, or only responding when convenient?
- What opportunities for charity have I overlooked lately?
- How does proactive generosity reflect God's character in my life?
@kateyakli
).We continue tomorrow with Resolution 14.This is Day 13 in our daily series on Jonathan Edwards' 70 Resolutions.References for Further Reading- Full text of Edwards' Resolutions: https://www.jonathan-edwards.org/Resolutions.html
- "The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards" (Desiring God): https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-resolutions-of-jonathan-edwards
- Ligonier Ministries overview: https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/resolutions-jonathan-edwards
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