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The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed (Proverbs 11:25, NLT).
I’m not naturally generous.
There is something about my flesh that inserts a rationalization every time I consider giving money and going out of my way to spend time with a person in need.
How about you?
I have also noted that I have joy after giving whether it is time, talent, or treasure.
Generosity is the fabric of God. God said at the beginning…
Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it (Genesis 1:28, NLT).
After our failures, God was still generous…
For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).
When we are generous, our attitudes match the heart of God – the generous prosper and find themselves refreshed.
There is one common excuse used for all generations to not give. We say too quickly, “I don’t have enough money and I don’t have time.” College-age, young parents, parents with children in college, and in retirement – we don’t have enough.
God said, “Fill the earth and govern it,” or take control of your destiny. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations.” Both our destiny and our mission of discipleship take generosity and when we live with God’s heart instead of our fear, we find the peace that comes from fulfilled purpose!
We are refreshed continually through generosity.
There are two types of Habits of Generosity…
- Tithes and offerings for all. This is the base discipline for every believer. To find refreshment, start giving financially.
Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! (Malachi 3:10)
- Your assignments. God will give you a personalized generosity development plan. Starting today, watch for opportunities to give time, talent, and treasure. You will need faith as you, seemingly, do not have enough money or time.
You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” And God will generously provide all you need (2 Corinthians 9:7-8).
In 2000, Randy Alcorn wrote a book entitled The Treasure Principle. I read it, and many in the church that I pastored not only read the book but determined to be good stewards of their treasure. As I consider the generosity of those who developed habits of generosity – I’ve noticed they have lived better lives.
Less anxiety, better relationships, and even more money!
Toward the end of Alcorn’s book, he writes…
God uses giving to conform us to His image. Gaze upon Christ long enough and you’ll become more of a giver. Give long enough and you’ll become more like Christ.
Only in Jesus will we find peace, and only through our habits of generosity will we mature in Christ.