The Spiritual Discipline of Generosity

Why be Generous?

It is a Blessing to Give

Acts 20:35 NIV

35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

Everything Belongs to God Anyway...

Psalm 24:1 NIV

1 The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;

Greed is not Fulfilling

Luke 12:15 NIV

15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”

Generosity is Investment in God’s Kingdom

Matthew 6:19–21 NIV

19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

What Good is Material Wealth Anyway, Really?

Matthew 16:26 NIV

26 What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?

Greed is a Form of Idolatry

Matthew 6:24 NIV

24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

How to be Generous?

First, Be Content “in All Circumstances”

1 Timothy 6:6 NIV

6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.

Then, Simply Give of What You Have...

1 Timothy 6:17–18 NIV

17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.

…And, Do Your Giving With a Good Attitude...

2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV

7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Be Wise With Your Generosity...

Remember that Jesus taught us to steward all our resources…including ourselves. We are to love our neighbours as ourselves…

See Jesus’ parable of the good Samaritan for a model of how to give generously, and yet wisely (Lk. 10:25-37).

Remember that Jesus took time away from ministry to rest and be with God alone on numerous occasions.

Remember that we are called to also be “shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves”

…And Always Keep Your Heavenly “Investment Plan” in Mind