When I read the 13th resolution of Jonathan Edwards, I see a man who seemed to grasp his purpose in life. He said,

Resolved, To be endeavouring to find out fit objects of liberality and charity.

When I think about the future, my mind gravitates more quickly to what I can get as opposed to what I can give. I say that as a confession. I want to be known more for what I gave than what I got but this is a real struggle. It comes much more easily to ask, “What can you do for me” than “What can I do for you?” 

In this resolution I hear Edwards saying that he is going to strive give wisely and lavishly. He said that he wanted to find “fit objects” to give towards which means he probably didn’t give rashly. But he went on to say that he wanted to find “fit objects” of “liberality and charity.” Liberality and charity are sacrificial words. You can’t give that way without it costing you something. Liberal giving is not the same as convenient giving. I’m okay with giving when it’s convenient but don’t ask me to sacrifice too much. 

I’m convinced that many lives would be positively impacted if we were to learn from this resolution of Jonathan Edwards. Perhaps we could leave a mighty wake of generosity behind us.