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  EPISTLE 419
  by George Fox
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Summary: George Fox encourages believers to give to the poor cheerfully,
remembering that it is a means to keep the mind focused on the Lord and
to experience God's provision.

Topics: "Charitable Giving", "Stewardship"
Scripture References: Proverbs 19:17

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DESCRIPTION
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George Fox emphasizes the importance of generosity towards the poor,
suggesting that instead of lavish dinners, Friends should consider
providing for widows, fatherless, and those in need, as this act would
be pleasing to God and a way to keep their minds focused on the Lord. He
encourages cheerful giving, reminding that those who give to the poor
are lending to the Lord and will be repaid. Fox believes that regardless
of the amount given, God will ensure that they do not lack by the end of
the year.

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CONTENT
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Dear friends,--Something was upon me to write unto you, that such among
Friends, who marry, and provide great dinners, that instead thereof, it
will be of a good savour on such occasions, that they may be put in mind
at such times, to give something to the poor that be widows and
fatherless, and such like, to make them a feast, or to refresh them.

And this, I look upon, would be a very good savour, to feast the poor
that cannot feast you again [Luke 14:13]; and would be a good practice
and example, and would be a means to keep the mind to the Lord; and in
remembrance of the poor; for 'they that give to the poor, lend to the
Lord, and the Lord will repay them [Prov 19:17].' And I do really
believe, whatever they give, less or more, according to their ability,
cheerfully, they will not have the less at the year's end, for the Lord
loves a cheerful giver [2 Cor 9:7]. . . .  . . .

G. F.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/george-fox/epistle-419/
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