Have you ever had someone give you something and then take it back? Maybe it was a financial gift? Perhaps it was a lover's token, like a ring or bracelet? Perhaps it was something intangible, like a pledge of support and a vow to provide a service.
Whatever the situation, it is disheartening when someone refuses to keep a promise, for whatever reason. People who give something, whether tangible or intangible, and then take it back are known as "Indian Givers." The term refers to a way of identifying someone who gives something of value and then takes it back. By any standard, a relatively small number of people enjoy Indian Givers.
Historically, a man's word was his bond. You could count on him to honor a pledge, regardless of the circumstances. Unfortunately, that is not the dominant sentiment of our time. A man keeps his word only when it's convenient or satisfying. As people seek to shield themselves from future, predicted losses, they become distrustful of one another.
Think of the country preacher with the leaking roof. The country preacher believed strongly in the Lord's ability to influence people's hearts. However, it appeared that Satan's influence was doing wonders in their hearts and wallets recently.
People were hoarding money and failing to pay their church dues, leading to a collapse in the church. The church's roof began to leak badly, but the people refused to move. They placed pots on the floor and rearranged benches so that the water wouldn't ruin their new outfits.
Finally, the preacher delivered his appeal. "Members, we need a new roof for this church. Everyone can see the necessity. I'm going to pass the hat around, and I'd like you to make a generous gift to help us fix this roof.
The pastor handed down his hat and lowered his head. After the ceremony, the deacons approached him with a request. "Reverend, how much did we get?" The preacher lowered his head and murmured, "Not a dime." In fact, I didn't even receive my hat back!"
In America, many churches are in need because people have broken their promises to God. We have so much paperwork attached to every business promise because of distrust.
The papers serve to validate our agreements and provide a legal framework to enforce our commitments. If we fail to honor our commitments in these situations, we will face consequences. It does not matter how we feel.
We Christians have made certain promises to God. Among them is our resolve to pay generously to support his charitable efforts and promote his message. In exchange, God has generously provided for us. While God has never failed to keep his end of the contract, we have frequently become Indian Givers in relation to Him. He continually provides and never takes it back. We should do the same.
The Rev. J. D. Yates, pastor of Bell Grove M. B. Church, interim pastor of Kindling Star M. B. Church, and president of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Greenville and Vinicity
