Give and get rich!

Did you know that the word ‘generous’ comes from a Latin root word meaning ‘of noble birth?’  Those who were born to wealth and privilege ideally used their nobility to enrich others, to provide protection and help for those of lower status and those who were poor.  The Greek culture, pre-Christian, lauded generosity as a prime virtue. Aristotle taught that generosity was not indiscriminate giving to any and all, but rather giving as an investment made for the highest good of others.  Paul says that a generous spirit is  reflection of God’s own heart, pointing to the gift of Christ Jesus who came to love us ‘while we were still sinners!’

Are you a generous person?  Think beyond dollars and cents before you answer! Generosity or the lack thereof is a value that shapes every interaction.  It flows out of a most basic way of seeing the world.  Is your life about “how you can serve me,” or about “how I can serve you?”  Do you meet the world around you with open hands or clenched fists?

When we come to Jesus as our Savior, Friend, and Lord generosity should begin to develop in us.  It is one of the visible proofs of spiritual transformation. John says that ‘we love because He (God) loved us.’  He continues with a pointed question: "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?" (1 John 3:16-17, NIV)  James is equally clear: "Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us." (James 1:27, NLT)  There were no social welfare programs when the New Testament was written.  Early Christians, often impoverished themselves, adopted orphans and took widows into their homes, because they knew Jesus’ way was one of loving generosity.

Generosity includes forgiveness, looking out for others, extending protection, showing hospitality, being kind to those who are not.  Yes, of course, it also extends into the area of our money.  A generous spirit will show up in the way you pay others. Do squeeze those who work for you or compensate them fairly? Do you tip liberally or right at the minimum?  Do you support charitable work and your local church with joy because you are able to participate in the work of the Lord?

The word from the Word states God’s principle.  Think about it.  What has God invested in you? Now, will you invest it in others?

"The world of the generous gets larger and larger;
the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller.

The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed;
those who help others are helped.

Curses on those who drive a hard bargain!

Blessings on all who play fair and square! "

(Proverbs 11:24-26, The Message)