January 31, 2024

A Generous Heart

Written by Boyd Bailey

Generosity is a reflection of our faith in God’s faithfulness.”

Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – January 31, 2024

You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.  2 Corinthians 9:11

My grandmother was my first model of generosity. She allowed my mom to raise me and my two brothers rent-free in her modest rental home. When I started attending church as an older teenager, she made sure my shoes were reflective of a heart seeking the Lord…clean with good soles! Her home was always open with the warm hospitality of good food and authentic conversations. My grandmother taught me that a generous heart flows freely from God’s heart. 

Generosity is more than just giving; it’s a reflection of the heart. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody the spirit of generosity, mirroring the abundant grace bestowed upon us by our heavenly Father. God’s Word teaches us that everything we have is a gift from Him. When we grasp this truth, our perspective on possessions shifts. It is not about ownership but stewardship. We become conduits of God’s blessings, entrusted with resources to extend His love to others.

Generosity is not confined to material wealth; it encompasses our time, talents, and treasure. It’s the willingness to share what we have, whether abundant or meager, with a cheerful heart, knowing that our actions honor God and bless others. Jesus exemplified the ultimate act of generosity through His sacrificial love on the cross. He gave without expecting anything in return, showing us that true generosity flows from selflessness and genuine concern for others’ well-being. When we practice generosity, we cultivate a spirit of gratitude. We acknowledge God’s provision in our lives and express thankfulness by sharing with others. Through our generosity, others witness God’s goodness and experience His love tangibly.

Moreover, generosity begets generosity. Giving freely inspires a ripple effect, touching lives and prompting others to do the same. It creates a community marked by compassion and support, where needs are met and hearts are uplifted. However, generosity isn’t always easy. The call to give sacrificially challenges our natural inclinations in a world consumed by self-interest. Yet, God promises to bless those who give willingly and cheerfully, multiplying their generosity and providing for their needs. When stretched to give sacrificially, our faith is stretched.

Generosity is a reflection of our faith in God’s faithfulness. When we give with open hearts, we declare our trust in His provision and sovereignty over our lives. May we cultivate hearts of generosity, embracing the joy found in giving. The measure of our lives is not in what we keep for ourselves but in what we invest in God’s Kingdom. As we extend love, kindness, and resources to those around us, may it be a testament to the abundant grace of our heavenly Father.

Grow your generous heart by being around other generous hearts. My wife, Rita, and I attend an annual Celebration of Generosity, which is a gathering of families from around the country who love Christ and whose heart is to live a life of radical generosity. In addition, twice a year, we host an experience with authentic conversations called a Journey of Generosity. A group of 15 Jesus followers meet to pray, hear compelling stories of generosity, and dig into God’s Word. Your generosity is an act of worship that glorifies God as others give thankful praise to Him!

“Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’” (Acts 20:35).

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless generosity towards us. Teach us to be generous as You are, freely sharing the blessings You’ve entrusted to us. May our acts of generosity bring glory to Your name and be a source of hope and blessing to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Application

Consider attending a Celebration of Generosity or a Journey of Generosity.


Related Reading

Luke 6:38; Hebrews 13:16; Galatians 6:2; 1 John 3:17


Worship Resource

Maverick City Worship feat. Maryanne J. George: Such an Awesome God


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