The reality is that most people want to be more generous and want to give more than they do. Today, we delve into the transformative power of generosity and discover practical ways to cultivate a more generous heart. In a world often driven by self-interest and materialism, the virtue of generosity stands as a beacon of light, reminding us of the true joy that comes from giving.

Scarcity Prevents Us From Being Generous

The main reason we don’t is because we feel like we can’t. Far too many of us are caught in a Cycle of Scarcity.  

When God supplies, the first thing we do is CONSUME. We spend what ever comes in then at the end of the month there’s nothing left. So WE LACK. When we consume and don’t have enough we begin to FEAR.

As Jesus’ followers, we have a completely different mindset. Because of what God has done for us through Jesus, we do something different. We give generously.

2 Corinthians 9:6-12 “The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. As it is written, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.

Abundance Opens The Door To Generosity

Instead of a cycle of scarcity, we live in a Cycle of Abundance.

 

Whenever God supplies, the first thing we do is GIVE. We give back to God as an act of worship. We give because He first gave to us. And when we give, what does God do? GOD MULTIPLIES. Jesus promised that those who give will be blessed in proportion to how they give…”give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Instead of living in fear, our FAITH GROWS. It takes faith to give first. Generous giving to God is one of the primary ways we put Him first and trust Him with the rest of the areas of our lives.

Now, this only works in God’s economy. Giving first to God makes no sense intellectually. But when we trust Him and worship Him with our generosity…God breaks the cycle of scarcity and create a cycle of abundance in our lives!

This is what we do! 
1) We always give a portion
2) Sometimes it’s a sacrifice
3) We understand we can’t out give God

Special thanks to Craig Groeschel and Life Church for introducing me to the cycles of abundance & scarcity.