Generosity - What Does it Mean?
When you hear the word ‘generosity’ what comes to mind for you?
Generosity can be expressed in different ways. It can be a one-off action or a lifestyle choice. Either way generosity is an intentional decision by someone to give something they own to somebody else.
The Oxford dictionary defines generosity as ‘the fact of being generous (= willing to give someone money, gifts, time, or kindness freely)’.
So often we associate generous acts with materialism - giving of money or objects but it’s interesting that the dictionary goes one step further and includes time and kindness in its definition.
When we look at the origins of generosity in western culture, all roads lead back to the Bible and the nature of God. In Genesis we read how God created the world in all its intricate, complicated, creative detail and placed Adam in the Garden of Eden to care for it. God gave him all that he needed to live an extraordinary life. There was only one thing that he couldn’t do and that was to eat from the tree of knowledge.
As we walk through the Old Testament we discover examples of God's generosity as he provided food and water for the Israelites in the desert, protected them from their enemies as they journeyed into the promised land and restored what had been destroyed when they returned from captivity.
But the greatest example of generosity was when God willingly sent Jesus, his son, to earth as a baby to grow up and live a perfect human life. Jesus selflessly chose to follow his fathers plan and die on the cross taking the punishment for us, a punishment He didn’t deserve!
John 3:16 (NLT) ‘For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.’
Through the sacrifice of his son, God provided a rescue plan so that humanity can be reconciled to him through Jesus - the ultimate act of generosity!
But why is generosity so important?
Firstly, it reflects the nature of God.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (NLT) ‘Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.”[a] 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.’
When we make a decision to give willingly, without being coerced or manipulated, God promises that He will generously provide for your needs.
Secondly, being generous allows us to lift our eyes beyond our own circumstances and make a difference in the lives of others.
When we give to those in need, it provides us with the opportunity to appreciate all that we have worked hard for and the life we’ve created. There is a deep joy that comes when you witness the reaction of the recipient of your generosity.
Thirdly, it’s good for your health.
More and more studies are showing that our physical and mental health improves when we are generous. Being generous gives us a sense of purpose, helps reduce stress and fight depression.
At Global Grace we are blessed to be the givers and receivers of generosity. Whether it’s donors supporting the work or equipping and supporting missionaries on the field, generosity has an impact that can’t always be measured in our lifetime - but the ripple effects can impact communities and generations for years to come.
Today, can I encourage you to make a decision to embrace generosity. It might be giving your time to pray for a missionary. Maybe you can mow the lawn for your neighbour or sending a note to a friend you haven’t spoken to for a long time. Perhaps it’s making a donation to Global Grace to help missionaries across the world share the transforming news of the gospel - whatever it is, remember the impact will be significant for you and the person and the recipient.