The things we hold can be seen and enjoyed while they are in our possession. Here is a succinct description of what it means to hold things with open hands, not so much as owners but as guardians looking for the right opportunity to make use of what we hold for good purposes. are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share. This sets enjoyment – joy – as the keynote for our relationship with the things we have. The New Testament gives an insight into God's attitude towards our possessions:Īs for those who in this present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. It is true that the object held in closed hands is less likely to be lost or stolen but at what cost to the holder? King David warned : If riches increase do not set your heart on them (Psalm 62 verse 10b). Inevitably, therefore, the possession held in closed hands will become the main focus of attention for the one holding it. The person holding on with closed hands will find it impossible to use their hands effectively for any other purpose. Something held with a closed hand is out of sight and cannot be appreciated and enjoyed by the person holding it or by anybody else.
This breaks down into two forms of ownership: There are many different ways of owning what we have : fearfully, dutifully, guiltily, painfully, awkwardly, resignedly, gratefully, generously, joyfully.
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