“But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly,
and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his
heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound
toward you, that you always having an sufficiency I all things may have an
abundance for every good work.”—2 Corinthians 9:6-8
I think that all of
us are selfish to some extent;
however, a truly selfish person tends
to be so self-absorbed that they think only of their wants and needs. I have notice that selfish people prioritize their needs and wants above everyone else’s
even if there are really needed people around them. It
is as if they turn a deaf ear to the necessities of others and they just live
for themselves.
On the other hand, generous
people give without hope of receiving compensation for their good deeds. Although personal gain may happen, it is not
the motivation factor that causes the generous
person to give. I have noticed that generous people tend to be hopeful and positive people. They truly believe that the world, although
not perfect, can be made into a much better place. Also, trust seems to be a major quality among
generous people. They truly trust
those who are involved with the cause they are giving to will use the resources
appropriately.
One of the best outcomes of being a generous giver is that we are revitalized and energized to do more
good. I think what happens to a generous giver is best summed up in the
following scriptures: (Emphasis added to each scripture).
“Give generously to them and do so without a
grudging heart; then because of this the Lord
your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to”
(Deuteronomy 15:10).
“The wicked borrow and
do not repay, but the righteous give generously”
(Psalm 37:21).
Good will come to those
who are generous and lend freely,
who conduct their affairs with justice (Psalm 112:5).
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be
refreshed (Proverbs 11:25).
“If any of you lacks
wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously
to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5)
Because of humanities selfish
nature, we want to keep what we have. However,
as believer, we are called to follow the example of Christ. To overcome selfishness and become a generous
giver, remember these truths. We are . . .
• Imitating
Jesus when we give sacrificially.
• Honoring our heavenly Father when we obey His commands to
give.
• Providing God with opportunities to bless us as we share with
others.
• Extending His work through our support of ministry with
tithes and offerings.
Being a generous
person requires a heart that loves the Lord above all else, a will that is
submitted to Him, and a mind that desires to obey His commands. The Holy Spirit, who helps us have victory
over self, will also transform us into someone who finds pleasure in giving.
Prayer—Heavenly Father,
I surrender every part of me that has a tendency to be selfish in any way. I ask You to forgive me, and quicken me
whenever I want to hold on to something that You have need of for Your kingdom
work. Father, I purpose in my heart to
respond generously to Your work, in Jesus Name. Amen.
