Sunday's Message: The Generous Life
"You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion,
and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God."
The Marks of a Generous Life
Love that looks beyond its self. "We don't give to get, we give to give." Simple enough right? But so many people give because they see it as the "Christian thing to do." While that may be true, this is not the only reason we should give. We should give because we truly want to because we are compelled to by some force outside of us. "True generosity flows out a grateful heart."
Willing to invest time in others. "We are often more stingy with our time than our money." Think back to some of your favorite shows. The bad seed is always the kid with parents who gave the child every material thing they wanted but never gave them time. This really can change how people see the world as they grow up. "Generosity doesn't have to be giving your money or material things. It could just be your time." The guest pastor today told us about a guy whose mother had thrown him out on the street when he was about 10. He was now homeless but not for very long. He would soon find a new home in Place of Hope, Children's Home. I don't remember how old the guy is now but he works for the church he attended growing up. He regularly goes back to the place where he grew up and where his life changed to help other young men.
Willing to use its abilities and resources at hand. My generous life began the minute I started Dream On Youth. It didn't really start to flourish until I came back to Auburn in August. I have no job, basically no money, and attend college as a full-time student. What could I possibly change right? Wrong. I have done more with Dream On Youth now than I ever did when I had a job and was living back home in North Carolina. Through my social media connections, my graphic design skills, and heart for helping others. I have changed more lives now than ever. Just because I used my skills, knowledge, and time. The pastor gave an example of a young woman. A little girl had accidentally broken her flip-flop and asked the young lady for tape. This woman took off her Converse All-Stars and put them on the little girl's feet. "I just want you to remember something. In God's eyes, you're an All-Star." This young lady has started an organization solely based on donating Converse All-Stars to children because she believes they're All-Stars in God's eyes.
Intentionally gives ________ for eternal purposes. I'm not actually sure what the answer is for this. We skipped it.
We flew through the next section but that doesn't mean you still shouldn't read it!
The Benefits of a Generous Life
The favor of God. "Generosity will unlock the door to a blessed life."
Real prosperity. "A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." (Proverbs 11:25)
A legacy of impact.
Impact with honor.
Bonus: Treasures in heaven. Our generosity is a reflection of the Generosity of God. "We are ambassadors for Christ."
"Go to the next level in your life of generosity."
God bless every single one of you,
Cydney