Tag Archives: generosity

May 19
Leave a comment
Uncategorized

“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.” (2 Corinthians 9:7, NIV)

Each day, we are presented with numerous opportunities to give.

In the context of today’s scripture, Paul is both commending and encouraging the disciples in Corinth (who were a pretty cosmopolitan lot in their day) to not only give of their treasure, but to give it liberally — and with a smile!

As you have opportunity to give today, remember that “God loves a cheerful giver.”  – Luther

Tagged , , , ,
May 11
Leave a comment
Uncategorized

“Be generous, and you will be prosperous. Help others, and you will be helped.” (Proverbs 11:25, Good News Translation)

If the word of God is true, then we need not fear the personal expense being generous. If the word of God is true, then we need not avoid the inconvenience of helping others.

To give liberally of our time, talent, and treasure is a litmus test of our faith in God.  To be eager to help others — particularly those who cannot return the favor — is a counter-intuitive investment in our future.

Be generous and helpful out of obedience.  This is what God expects of his children.  Be generous and helpful out of love for our heavenly Father, because doing so makes us partners with Him in His work in this world; and because doing so allows us to achieve His point of view through imitation.

We will be surprised, amazed, and humbled by the faithfulness of God when we exercise our faith in Him in these simple ways.  – Luther

Tagged , , ,
November 11
Leave a comment
Uncategorized

“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Hebrews 13:16, NIV)

Of course, it is a sacrifice to do the right thing, because doing so means forsaking the privileges and benefits to which we feel entitled.

Of course, it is a sacrifice to share. It means making do with less of something we, deep-down, want more of; or we think of some others as less worthy of our time, talent, and treasure.

Nevertheless, we are reminded that to pursue goodness, mercy, kindness, and love in all of our relationships; and to prefer sharing all that we have with others to withholding the same from them pleases God.

So, go ahead: Do the things that make our heavenly Father smile. There is no shame in goodness; and it is through giving that we receive.  – Luther

Tagged , ,
← Older posts
Newer posts →