Generosity—It’s So Simple

November 2, 2023

Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 NLT

If you struggle with the concept of generosity, spend the rest of the year reading through the New Testament. The words and life of Jesus in the gospels, the story of the early church, the letters to the church leaders, and even John’s Revelation over and over teach generosity and speak of it as the most natural characteristic of a Jesus-follower.

Generosity is incredibly simple. It’s not just the simple acts we do. It proceeds from a heart that is full of trust for the true Source. In our world where we calculate and think and explain and rationalize, generosity easily becomes a source of argument and defensiveness. But there’s no reason. Generosity is simply the loving and cheerful sharing of what we have. And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Hebrews 13:16 NLT

Generosity is primarily a willing heart choice. Grand acts of “generosity” that are primarily for others to notice are not significant in God’s eyes. Jesus said anyone who does something good under pressure, for show, not from their heart will get no reward from Him—only the fleeting feel-good of being noticed in the moment. They are meaningless. But, on the other hand, gifts that come from a willing and loving heart are momentous and potentially lifechanging for the giver and the recipient. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:3 NLT

Generosity is much more than just giving money. Paul tells them, “They should be rich in good works …” (1 Timothy 6:18). Simply throwing money at something is not the total of generosity. Giving our time, resources, abilities, a listening ear, or a kind word, are often even more generous than giving money.

Generosity blesses the giver more than the recipient. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life (1 Timothy 6:19 NLT). Nothing guarantees a life worth living now and later than the twin qualities of generosity and gratitude. It leads to life that is true life. It’s simply wise. Simply wonderful.

• Where can your generosity grow? What is God speaking to your heart? WHO is He speaking to your heart?