Articles
Called to be Generous
The most important aspect to cheerful giving is making God your first priority. In 2 Corinthians 8:3-5, the apostle Paul describes the generosity of the Macedonian churches by saying, “For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.” When the focus remains on God, His children are able to give without monetary fear, selfish ambitions, or other anxieties.
My wife is the primary earner between the two of us. When she gets a promotion at work, the first thing I ask her is, “How much should we increase our giving to God’s church by?” Together we focus our minds on God and give back a portion of what He has lovingly provided for us. Then I surprise her with a thoughtful gift for all her hard work that allows us to thrive. In these moments, my only concern is how to show my immense gratitude by being generous.
In Luke `12:22-32, Jesus tells God’s children not to be anxious in their lives because He supplies all their needs. Then, Jesus continues in Luke 12:33-35 by saying, “Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning.”
When God showed Himself to Moses using the burning bush, Moses was afraid of being able to effectively live according to God’s will. God addressed all of Moses’ concerns and told Him in Exodus 3:12, “But I will be with you.” Later on, the prophet Isaiah, is worried about undertaking the Lord’s work because of His sin. Therefore, God cleansed his sin. In Isaiah 6:8, God asked the prophet, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Isaiah cheerfully replied, “Here I am! Send me.” God calls His children to willingly give with the joyful love that He showed us. His power should be more than enough for each child to confidently achieve His will. How will you decide to answer God’s call to be generous?
