I like generous people. I know many, and am the recipient of their thoughtfulness. But in the workings of society, generosity gets subsumed by consumption. How do I keep generosity in mind as I manage my affairs?

I gain encouragement from Paul when he wrote, Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 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.

Years ago someone shared with me this acronym about generous giving — LIFE. I carry the potential to help others with my Labor, my Influence, my Finances, and my Expertise.

I add my labor by helping a neighbor clean up their yard, or serving at church setting up for a funeral service. My influence helps friends meet a missionary raising funds to reach the field. Giving financially is most understood and most easily practiced, but the area of expertise takes some thought—what has the Lord made me especially good at that I could use to help others? I know friends handy with tools who work on widow’s houses free of charge. What do I have to offer?

Paul leaves the possibilities wide-open— give how you want with no obligation, just do so with optimism and good will. Generosity will rebound in delightful and unexpected ways.

Generosity gets easier the more I practice. The positive cycle of sowing and reaping gains momentum. The Lord, always open-handed, allows me to participate in his generosity for the benefit of both myself and those around me.

2 Corinthians 9 in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by Joel Muniz