Think Like Jesus: Timeless Wisdom From ProverbsSample

Always Be Generous

It seems counterintuitive, but in God’s economy, giving is its own form of receiving. The backwards value systems of the world tell you to get all you can. God tells you to give all you can. Jesus was the perfect model of God’s generous heart. Jesus sacrificed His position of glory and comfort in heaven to enter our world of brokenness and pain. 

He sacrificed the wealth of heaven for a life of poverty. He sacrificed His time on earth to serve the needs of others, instead of claiming His right to be served. He gave His life on the cross to pay the price of sin—a price that was our debt and not His. He gave His life, but He was resurrected to an eternal life. He suffered temporary pain, but it paved the way for us to experience eternal glory with Him. 

The Bible often challenges us to take an inventory of our own lives and choices. I want to invite you to do that right now regarding generosity. Have you been faithful in your generosity? Have you trusted God with the tithe, which is the first ten percent of your income? Have you helped those in need? Are you experiencing the prosperity and joyfulness that are the fruits of a generous life? Start right where you are and commit to live more generously. Ask God to guide your steps in this area. Study on your own to learn the financial principles outlined in the Bible. 

It’s foolish to say we trust Jesus with our hearts but are reluctant to trust Him with our money. Remember, it all belongs to Him. We are only temporarily stewards of our money. That frees us up to give faithfully when prompted. When we honor God and serve others by giving of our time, talents and treasures, blessings always follow.

Prayer

Jesus, thank You for giving everything for me. Help me live my life with the same generous Spirit You have. Lead me and guide me toward faithful stewardship of my time and my resources. Help me be a blessing to others. Let me never love money more than I love You or more than I love people. Help my priorities stay in line with Yours. Please help me experience the joy and freedom that generosity always makes possible. Thank You for Your goodness and grace. 

In Jesus’s name, amen.