Generosity

From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries

Proverbs 22:9 "Blessed are those who are generous to the poor."

We're wasting too much time arguing about both poverty and wealth; coming up with litmus tests for judging somebody else's level of Spirituality based on their lifestyle, or how well they conform to our interpretation of 'Biblical standards!'

In the New Testament Jesus honored a little widow for giving her last two cents. He said, "Others gave what they'll never miss… she gave her all" (Mark 12:44). On the other hand, businessman Barnabas "sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet" (Acts 4:37). "Great gifts mean great responsibilities" (Luke 12:48). The more God blesses you with, the more accountable He'll hold you for how you handle His blessings.

During the offering a pastor told his congregation to reach out and grab the wallet or purse of the person sitting in front of them. "Now," he said, "Open it and give as much as you always wanted to, but felt you couldn't afford!" Hello! Solomon said, "The Godly love to give!" (Proverbs 21:26). and while you may have less to give than the next guy, we've all been called to equal generosity and loyal sacrifice.

Isn't it interesting how you sometimes go to dinner at the home of somebody who doesn't have a lot, yet come away feeling like royalty because of the hospitality you experienced? That's because the essence of generosity is self-sacrifice. God entrusts financial increase to people who aren't controlled by the love of money! You'll be amazed what God will do in your life when you're open-handed with your finances.