Living Generously: Embracing Faith Through Intentional Giving

Summary

### Summary

In 1996, I had the privilege of traveling to China, where I experienced the profound faith of Christians worshiping under challenging circumstances. This experience underscored the importance of gathering together as believers, a practice that has been central to Christianity since the resurrection of Jesus. Today, I want to emphasize the significance of in-person gatherings and the wisdom principles from the Bible that can transform our lives.

We are continuing our series called "You'll Be Glad," which focuses on biblical wisdom principles that, when followed, lead to a more fulfilling life. Today, we delve into the principle of living generously. Generosity is not just about random acts of giving but about cultivating a lifestyle of intentional, premeditated, and sacrificial giving. This principle is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus, who lived a life of ultimate generosity.

Generosity is often misunderstood. It is not spontaneous or dependent on cash flow; it is a calculated and designated act that reflects our trust in God rather than our financial security. Jesus highlighted this when He praised the poor widow who gave all she had, demonstrating that true generosity is measured by what we keep for ourselves, not by the amount we give.

Living generously means making intentional decisions about our finances, prioritizing others, and aligning our actions with the heart of Jesus. It involves setting goals for giving, being strategic about where we invest our resources, and ensuring that our financial practices reflect our faith. This approach not only helps us avoid the pitfalls of consumerism but also allows us to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Generosity is a reflection of God's character, and as His followers, we are called to mirror that generosity in our lives. By living generously, we not only bless others but also experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from aligning our lives with God's purposes.

### Key Takeaways

1. The Importance of Gathering Together: Gathering with other believers is crucial for spiritual growth and encouragement. The writer of Hebrews urges us not to neglect meeting together, as it helps us motivate one another to acts of love and good works, especially as we anticipate Christ's return. [07:34]

2. Generosity as a Lifestyle: True generosity is not about random acts of giving but about living a lifestyle of intentional and sacrificial giving. This means making premeditated, calculated, and designated decisions about our finances to reflect our trust in God. [44:10]

3. The Principle of First Fruits: Biblical generosity involves giving our first and best to God, not just what is left over. This principle, seen in the practice of first fruits, teaches us to prioritize God in our finances and trust Him with our provision. [53:25]

4. Impact of Generosity on Relationships: Generosity affects not only our relationship with God but also our relationships with others. Wise and principled financial decisions benefit those closest to us and can leave a lasting positive impact on our families and communities. [42:14]

5. Generosity Reflects God's Character: As followers of Jesus, we are called to mirror God's generosity. This means living others-first lives, just as Jesus did, and making financial decisions that align with His heart for people. Generosity is a tangible way to demonstrate our faith and trust in God. [50:55]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[07:34] - The Importance of Gathering Together
[08:27] - Gratitude for Attendance
[09:16] - Introduction to "You'll Be Glad" Series
[31:25] - Testimony and Life Change
[33:49] - Prayer for God's Guidance
[37:18] - Imagining Financial Mulligans
[38:10] - Addressing Nervousness About Money
[39:00] - The Concept of Wasted Money
[40:12] - Timeless Advice and Wisdom Principles
[41:17] - The Book of Proverbs and Wisdom
[42:14] - Impact of Decisions on Relationships
[43:12] - Mutual Submission in Relationships
[44:10] - Living Generously vs. Being Generous
[50:55] - Jesus' Example of Generosity
[51:50] - Myths About Generosity
[53:25] - Principle of First Fruits
[57:02] - Jesus' Teaching on the Widow's Offering
[58:50] - Generosity in Different Cultures
[59:48] - Trusting God with Finances
[01:00:54] - Misconceptions About Rich People and Generosity
[01:02:30] - Definition of Generous Living
[01:07:10] - Calculated and Designated Giving
[01:08:40] - Giving from a Grateful and Broken Heart
[01:11:28] - Supporting the Local Church
[01:12:35] - Financial Peace and Generosity
[01:16:11] - Living Others-First Lives
[01:17:53] - Conclusion and Invitation to Connect

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV) - "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
2. Luke 21:1-4 (NIV) - "As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 'Truly I tell you,' he said, 'this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.'"
3. Proverbs 3:9-10 (NIV) - "Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine."

#### Observation Questions
1. According to Hebrews 10:24-25, why is it important for believers to gather together? ([07:34])
2. In Luke 21:1-4, what did Jesus highlight about the poor widow's offering compared to the rich people's gifts? ([57:02])
3. What does Proverbs 3:9-10 teach us about the principle of first fruits and honoring God with our wealth? ([53:25])
4. How did the pastor describe the difference between "being generous" and "living generously"? ([44:10])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does gathering together with other believers help us grow spiritually and encourage one another? ([07:34])
2. Why do you think Jesus valued the widow's small offering more than the larger gifts from the rich? What does this teach us about true generosity? ([57:02])
3. How can the principle of first fruits in Proverbs 3:9-10 be applied to our modern financial practices? ([53:25])
4. What are some practical ways to shift from random acts of giving to a lifestyle of intentional and sacrificial generosity? ([44:10])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current practice of gathering with other believers. How can you make it a more consistent and meaningful part of your life? ([07:34])
2. Think about a time when you gave sacrificially. How did it impact your faith and trust in God? How can you cultivate a heart of generosity like the widow in Luke 21:1-4? ([57:02])
3. What steps can you take to prioritize giving your first and best to God, rather than what is left over? How can this principle change your financial decisions? ([53:25])
4. Identify one area in your budget where you can make intentional decisions to live generously. What specific goals can you set for giving? ([44:10])
5. How does living generously reflect God's character? In what ways can you mirror God's generosity in your daily life? ([50:55])
6. Discuss with your group or family how you can collectively support a cause or organization that aligns with your values and breaks your heart. What practical steps can you take together? ([01:08:40])
7. Consider the impact of your financial decisions on your relationships. How can wise and principled financial practices benefit those closest to you? ([42:14])

Devotional

Day 1: The Power of Gathering Together
Gathering with other believers is crucial for spiritual growth and encouragement. The writer of Hebrews urges us not to neglect meeting together, as it helps us motivate one another to acts of love and good works, especially as we anticipate Christ's return. In 1996, the speaker experienced the profound faith of Christians worshiping under challenging circumstances in China, which underscored the importance of gathering together as believers. This practice has been central to Christianity since the resurrection of Jesus. Gathering together provides a sense of community, accountability, and mutual support that is essential for a thriving spiritual life. [07:34]

Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."

Reflection: Think of a time when gathering with other believers significantly impacted your faith. How can you prioritize and encourage regular fellowship in your life today?

Day 2: Intentional Generosity
True generosity is not about random acts of giving but about living a lifestyle of intentional and sacrificial giving. This means making premeditated, calculated, and designated decisions about our finances to reflect our trust in God. Generosity is often misunderstood as spontaneous or dependent on cash flow, but it is a deliberate act that demonstrates our faith in God's provision rather than our financial security. Jesus highlighted this when He praised the poor widow who gave all she had, showing that true generosity is measured by what we keep for ourselves, not by the amount we give. [44:10]

2 Corinthians 9:7 (ESV): "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

Reflection: Reflect on your current financial practices. How can you make intentional decisions to live a lifestyle of generosity that reflects your trust in God?

Day 3: The Principle of First Fruits
Biblical generosity involves giving our first and best to God, not just what is left over. This principle, seen in the practice of first fruits, teaches us to prioritize God in our finances and trust Him with our provision. By giving our first and best, we acknowledge that everything we have comes from God and that we trust Him to meet our needs. This act of faith helps us to align our financial practices with our spiritual values and to live in a way that honors God. [53:25]

Proverbs 3:9-10 (ESV): "Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine."

Reflection: Consider how you can apply the principle of first fruits in your life. What steps can you take to ensure that you are giving your first and best to God?

Day 4: Generosity's Impact on Relationships
Generosity affects not only our relationship with God but also our relationships with others. Wise and principled financial decisions benefit those closest to us and can leave a lasting positive impact on our families and communities. When we prioritize others in our financial decisions, we reflect the heart of Jesus and create a ripple effect of blessing and support. This approach helps us to avoid the pitfalls of consumerism and to make a meaningful impact in the world around us. [42:14]

Acts 20:35 (ESV): "In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’"

Reflection: Think about your financial decisions and their impact on your relationships. How can you make choices that prioritize and benefit those closest to you?

Day 5: Reflecting God's Generosity
As followers of Jesus, we are called to mirror God's generosity. This means living others-first lives, just as Jesus did, and making financial decisions that align with His heart for people. Generosity is a tangible way to demonstrate our faith and trust in God. By living generously, we not only bless others but also experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from aligning our lives with God's purposes. [50:55]

1 Timothy 6:18-19 (ESV): "They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."

Reflection: Reflect on how your financial decisions reflect God's generosity. What changes can you make to ensure that your actions align with the heart of Jesus and demonstrate your faith and trust in God?

Quotes

1. "But even in this modern age, in-person gatherings matter. If you're not gathering with other believers, you should. That's not just my opinion. The writer of Hebrews instructs us to think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And, he or she says, let us not neglect the meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. If you're anywhere near St. John's, Florida, we'd love to have you each Sunday. at Liberty Pines Academy. If you're far away from us, find a local gathering with which you can engage. Gather together, pray, learn from the wisdom of God and his people, and sing." [08:27] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "And it's a series called You'll Be Glad. And it's all about wisdom principles from the Bible, not the rules, but the wisdom principles that if we live by these principles, our lives will be better and we will be glad that we did. So that's where we're going today. But before I come out and speak, we are going to sing a little bit together and we choose these songs. Specifically because of what they say about our God and our relationship with him, that the God of the universe is not frustrated with you. He is not angry with you. He is not upset with you. The God of the universe loves you and he is for you and we are for you as well. And so we want to sing some songs that celebrate that, that talk about that, that frankly remind us of these truths because we need to be reminded." [09:16] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "The Bible talks a lot about pursuing wisdom, about going after wisdom. If you've spent any time reading in the book of Proverbs, if you're not sure where to start reading your Bible, one simple adage that's been around for a long time is just start today, and whatever day it is on the calendar, today's the 29th. Am I right? 29th? Today's the 29th, so you start with Proverbs 29. There's 31 Proverbs, and you can easily read one proverb in like three or four minutes. And that proverb will help you in your life. And the Proverbs are really a series of wisdom principles. It's just a series of wisdom principles. You will find things in there that are worth underlining. You will find things in there that are worth highlighting because when we're talking about wisdom principles, we're talking about insights that are informed by the knowledge that life is connected, that life's connected, that today's connected to the decisions I made yesterday, and the decisions that I'm making today are going to affect my life tomorrow." [41:17] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "And more than that, not just connected across time, but relationally, our lives are connected. And the decisions that I make are going to have an impact on the people that are closest to me. And I know this is true because you've had people in your life who've not understood this principle, and the decisions that they have made poorly have impacted you. And so you feel like, man, I wish that they would understand that when they make a bad decision, it doesn't just affect them, it affects me as well. Well, guess what? There may be people in your life today or at some point in the future who will be so glad that you made principled, wise decisions. And that those principled, wise decisions not only benefit you, but they affect your kids, your spouse, anybody who is close to you or cares about you. This is the point of wisdom." [42:14] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Live generous. Now, I know there's supposed to be an L-Y on there. Apple broke the rules so we can break the rules too. But I want to contrast this with the idea of be generous. And so that's why I left the L-Y off. Be generous is like a moment in time, right? And we all have moments in time where we are generous. Even the most selfish, greedy person that you know has had moments in their life when they are generous. And so if you show up and you just say, hey. You know what? Be generous. They can do the same thing that you do when your spouse says, well, you never do this or, you know, you can never win the argument at home because when you say, hey, you never help around the house and then your spouse is like, yes, I do. Like two weeks ago, I helped load the dishwasher, you know. And so there's always an example for when we've done the right thing. And that's a moment in time. But there is another idea, which is that we live out a lifestyle. That it is a defined or a defining characteristic of who we are." [44:10] (63 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "And the thing about generosity is it's something we have to work at. It's something we have to come back to again and again and again. It's not a set it and forget it mode. We have to come back to it on a regular basis. Because here's the really challenging thing. One of the things that it is absolutely impossible to see in the mirror is greed. It's impossible to see greed in the mirror. And so we need a regular reminder. We need a regular check-in. We need a regular conversation. If you're single, you need a trusted friend that you can talk to about this. If you're married, you need to be talking about this on a regular basis with your spouse." [46:05] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "And the impact that I want to make, here I am, here I stand. The impact I want to make is to help people understand God's great, great love for them and His desire to reconnect in a relationship with them. And so if I say that that's what my life is all about, if I act as if that's what my life is all about, you should be able to open up my budget and you should say, yep, there it is. There's the evidence thereof. And I'm a little bit of a budget nerd. So if you want to see my budget, I'd love to show it to you. I'd actually have a conversation with you about your budget. I think budgeting is like one of the most fun things you can do in life. It's weird, isn't it? I know. But if you're with me, anybody with me, give me a good amen. There's a few of us out there. We just love ourselves a good spreadsheet." [47:46] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "But if you live generous, if you live generous, here's the thing. You will not only avoid greed, which none of us wants to be thought of as selfish or greedy, but you'll be less consumed. And what I mean by that is we live in a culture of consumerism. We live in a culture which is, I mean, I fall for it. You fall for it. I have in my pocket. An iPhone 16. Do you know how badly I needed this? Not at all. But if I didn't trade my old phone in now, then if I kept it any longer, I wouldn't get any value for it. So you find yourself thinking, okay, now I've got to be strategic and I've got to trade my phone in now before it's too old to trade in. And then I've got to get this new phone, which does, by the way, I don't know if you know this, exactly the same things. That my old phone did. Right? Like I was so excited and I got this out of the box and I got the software. And then you're like, feels a lot like my old phone. You know, it actually acts a lot like my old phone." [48:23] (66 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "And if you're just an average individual, maybe that's not a big deal to you. But if you're a follower of Jesus, then this really matters. Because Jesus lived his life. Generous. He lived his life, not for his benefit, but for your benefit and for mine. And so it's really important that we keep an eye on this and we check ourselves in the mirror. Now, one of the things that will confuse us. And one of the reasons that we can't see greed in the mirror is because we confuse generosity so often with what I call random acts of giving. Random acts of giving. And random acts of giving are just that. They are random acts of giving. And sometimes we look back on that and we're like, well, that makes me generous. No, I'm not talking about be generous in the moment. We are talking about live generous. Like that this is who you are. Not that, you know, you were at the checkout and somebody said you want to give $2 to the children's hospital. And you were like, oh, you know, they're going to think badly of me if I hit the red button. So I hit the green button and, you know, gave my $2 to the children's hospital. We're not talking about random acts of giving. We're talking about strategic, intentional, on purpose living where you say I'm going to orient my life in such a way that when people see the steps I'm taking in life, they would say that looks like someone who's following Jesus. That my steps are in line with the steps of Jesus." [49:16] (92 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "So first I want to demolish a few myths about generosity. And then we're going to look at what Jesus had to say about generosity. And then your lives are going to be changed. All right, here we go. Generosity myth number one. Generosity myth number one. Generous is spontaneous. Generous is not spontaneous. Spontaneous is spontaneous. That's all it is. Generous is not a feeling. And it's not the result of feeling. People who are truly generous are generous on purpose. It is something that they do with intentionality. Another myth is that generosity is regulated by cash flow. You've probably found yourself at some point saying. Oh, I wish I could help right now. I just can't. I just can't, right? I wish I could help right now, but I just can't. Because when someone asks for money, we immediately think to cash flow. We think to what we have available. What's liquid. What's on hand right now that we could possibly give. Instead of thinking about this as a lifestyle, as a pattern that goes on for our lives. The third myth is that it's the amount that counts." [52:43] (67 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

Chatbot

Transcript

What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?

Were there any personal stories shared?