Well-meaning people often look at those who have wealth and then fantasize how generous they will be when their own ship comes in. What they fail to understand is that generosity is not the result of a big paycheck or a large bank account, but rather the result of a proper mindset that flows out of the scriptures. The widow with the two mites clearly illustrates this reality. Most people who are large donors to organizations and ministries now were always donors, just on a much smaller scale. They are not generous because they donate; they donate because they are generous.
An apt definition for generous is, “the quality or fact of being plentiful or large.” In context, think of a restaurant giving large or plentiful portions. This is a wonderful definition as it takes the focus off of the specific act of generosity – especially concerning money – and places it where it should be: on the heart and perspective. Two scriptures that illustrate this are:
But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. – 2 Corinthians 9:6
The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself. – Proverbs 11:25
People who are generous have their eyes on others and not on themselves. They are constantly asking such questions as, “How can God use the gifts or resources He has given me in this particular situation? What’s the highest good I can do with what I have? What does their situation require at this moment?” This is what Paul hits on in Philippians 2:4 when he writes, “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Rather than being self-consumed, they are others-consumed. Their radar is constantly up, looking for an opportunity to share with others what God has entrusted to them.
One key aspect of generosity is that it is not limited to finances, though that may be the most recognizable. Some folks are generous with their words, always magnanimous and encouraging to others even when they themselves are having personal challenges or difficulties. Others have certain spiritual gifts or life experiences that are just what another needs at a critical time. Their donations come in the form of sweat equity. ICHE has been blessed with an ever-growing group of core personnel who help in various capacities throughout the year. We could not do what we do without them. (We are always looking for more!)
One of the greatest contributions someone can give any ministerial organization is a commitment to pray. There are several individuals who covenant to fast and pray one day a month for our various needs. Only eternity will reveal how vital those prayers were to this ministry. The point is that generosity comes in many forms.
The Christmas season provides the perfect backdrop to converse with our children about the need for generosity in our culture. We must convey to them that in God’s eyes, it is never about the amount or the effort but about the mindset and the motivation of the heart.
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