Generosity Matters

How can we live generous lives as believers?

Generosity puts all of our resources at the Lord’s disposal and direction. Whatever it is. Our finances, energies, abilities, life stories, and even our trials. The Lord uses all of these in his grand purpose. We must set aside our personal interests.

Here are the principles from yesterday in case you didn’t get a chance to write them down.

Generosity begins with full surrender (2 Cor 8.1-7).
Generosity reminds us of the gospel (2 Cor 8.8-15).
Generosity requires faithfulness (2 Cor 8.16-24).
Generosity beautifully displays the gospel (2 Cor 9.1-7).
Generosity rewards us with more grace, joy, and good works (2 Cor 9.5-10).
Generosity impacts the world (2 Cor 9.11-15).

Clearly, we see this truth in 2 Cor 9.9. You are never more like Jesus than when you give.

What if I don’t feel like a ‘cheerful’ giver? Pray for your heart to match God’s heart. Ask the Lord to show you the impact of your giving. Focus on the mission (what God is doing) rather than on the money (what you have or lack).

Let me close with this 90 day challenge. For the next 90 days, every resource which God places in your hand or family ask him what to do with it. After the 90 days, examine your life. What do you notice? I’d love to pray with you as you take this challenge. You can let me know here.

You can find the small group guide here (Spirit and Truth for 11/05/17). You can also download the Message 2017 Bible Reading Guide here (The Message).