Do so with an eye to Him, because you are genuinely concerned for
Ask God to accept your charitable acts so that they may truly be offerings: "Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings" (Acts 24:17). Let your good works be "an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God" (Philippians 4:18).
Pray for God's blessing upon what you give, so that it may bring comfort to those who receive it. Trust that even if what you give seems small, like the widow's two mites, God's blessing can multiply it and make it go a long way, just as He did with the widow's barrel of meal and cruse of oil.
Depend on God to replenish what you have given and to reward you abundantly in the resurrection of the just. You are also encouraged to wait on Him for a return even in this life. Your charity is like bread cast upon the waters, which you will find again after many days. Watch carefully for God's providence, and observe how He faithfully honours His promises and repays your good works. In this, you will see His lovingkindness and understand His faithfulness to His Word.
8. When you inquire about public news, wait upon God. Do so with an eye to Him, because you are genuinely concerned for the interests of His kingdom in the world, holding them close to your heart. Let your inquiry stem from compassion for humanity—for the lives and souls of people, and especially for God's people. Ask, "What news?" not like the Athenians, merely to satisfy a vain curiosity or to pass the time idly, but so that you may know how to direct your prayers and praises, balance your hopes and fears, and gain an understanding of the times, enabling you and others to discern what you ought to do.
If the state of public affairs is bright and encouraging, wait upon God to carry on and perfect His own work. Do not rely on the wisdom or