With Glad and Generous Hearts
Building Blocks for God’s People – Part 3
Generosity: Reflecting God’s Heart in Our Giving
Have you ever wondered what true generosity looks like? As we explore this topic, we’ll discover that the ultimate example of generosity comes from God Himself. Let’s dive into what the Bible teaches us about generosity and how we can reflect God’s heart in our own lives.
Generosity Displayed by God
The most familiar verse in the Bible, John 3:16, provides us with a perfect picture of God’s generosity:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life.”
This verse reveals three key aspects of God’s generosity:
1. Motivated by Love
God’s generosity stems from His deep love for us. As I’ve often said, “We love Him because He first loved us.” The same principle applies to our giving – we give because He first gave to us. God’s love wasn’t reserved for perfect people, but for a world that was hostile towards Him. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “But God demonstrated his love toward us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
2. Demonstrated Through Sacrifice
God’s generosity involved the ultimate sacrifice – giving His only Son. Jesus Himself said in John 10:17-18, “For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.” This sacrificial love sets the standard for our own generosity.
3. With a View of Eternity
God’s generous gift had an eternal purpose – to provide everlasting life for those who believe. His generosity wasn’t focused on temporary benefits but on our eternal destiny.
Generosity Displayed in God’s Church
Now, let’s look at how this divine generosity should be reflected in God’s church. Acts 2:44-45 gives us a glimpse of the early church’s radical generosity:
“And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.”
Three practical questions for us to consider:
1. Is Your Giving Motivated by Love?
Our giving should flow from a heart of love for God and others, not from a desire for recognition or praise. Jesus warns us in Matthew 6:1, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.”
2. Does Your Giving Represent Sacrifice?
While I’m not asking you to sell your homes or vineyards like the early church did, we should consider whether our giving truly costs us something. As F.B. Meyer said, “Whenever there is true love, there must be giving, and giving to the point of sacrifice.”
3. Is Your Giving Done with Eternity in Mind?
Jesus encourages us in Matthew 6:19-20, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” Our giving should have an eternal perspective, investing in God’s kingdom work.
Putting It Into Practice
As we reflect on God’s generosity and how we can mirror it in our lives, here are some practical steps to consider:
- Examine your heart: Is your giving motivated by love for God and others?
- Evaluate your sacrifice: Does your giving stretch you beyond your comfort zone?
- Consider eternity: Are you investing in things that have eternal value?
- Participate fully: Pray about how you can be part of what God is doing through your church and its ministries.
Remember, Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). When we embrace true generosity, we not only bless others but also experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from reflecting God’s heart.
Let’s challenge ourselves to grow in generosity, not out of obligation, but out of a response to God’s incredible generosity towards us. As we do, we’ll find that our hearts align more closely with His, and we’ll play a part in advancing His kingdom here on earth.
Build by Serving Others
Praise in Spite of Pain
Build on Prayer Acts
The Power of Giving
Build on the Power of God
Build on the Promises of God
We hope you enjoyed the sermon and would love to see you in person. Plan your visit to Community Baptist Church in Spring Hill, Tennessee today!