Generosity: part 1

This is a word that when I hear I think of someone being nice to me, or someone giving something, even more of something than I need. Like getting 15 cookies over just the baker’s dozen.

Let’s look at some places in he Bible where it talks about generosity.

Money is a big part of our lives, we need it to live. But in America we think we need it more than anything, we guard it like if we don’t spend as much of it on us as we can we are missing out. But true freedom comes from giving to God and those in need.

• Generous people get major benefits: Oh, the joys of those who are kind to the poor. The Lord rescues them in times of troubles. The Lord protects them and keeps them alive. He gives them prosperity and rescues them from their enemies. The Lord nurses them when they are sick and eases their pain and discomfort. Psalm 41:1-3
• God gives us money so we can help others: Tell them to use their money for goo. They should be rich in good works and should give generously to those in need, always being ready to share with others whatever God has given them. 1 Timothy 6:18
• A cheerful attitude is contagious: When you take your gifts to those who need them, they will break out in thanksgiving to God. 2 Corinthians 9:11
• Generous people get major benefits: Oh, the joys of those who are kind to the poor. The Lord rescues them in time of troubles. The Lord protects them and keeps them alive. He gives them prosperity and rescues them from their enemies. The Lord nurses them when they are sick and eases their pain and discomfort. Psalm 41:1-3
• The generous prosper and are satisfied; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25
• If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord-and He will repay you! Proverbs 19:17
• Give from the heart, not to look good: Take care! Don’t do your deeds publicly, to be admired, because then you will lose your reward from your Father in heaven. When you give a gift to someone in need, don’t shout about it as the hypocrites do- blowing trumpets in the synagogues and the streets to call attention to their acts towards charity! I assure you, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone, don’t tell your left hand what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in secret, and your Father, who knows all secrets, will reward you. Matthew 6:1-4 

We are God’s hand and feet, how will we work with what God has given us?