The Attitude Of Authentic Generosity

Christmas isn’t primarily about compassion. It’s about generosity. First and foremost it’s about God’s generosity toward us that was demonstrated when he gave his one and only Son so that we could have new life. Because of this truth, as we are in the Christmas season, there’s no better attitude we can develop than generosity, but being generous isn’t about how much you give. (the amount is irrelevant). It’s all about our attitude! The Bible says, “ For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.   [2 Corinthians 8:12]. Generosity isn’t talking about our wealth; it’s about our willingness — to help others, to show love to other people, and to honor God. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, “ Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver, ” God gives us three specific characteristics of an attitude of authentic generosity: 

=> Always thoughtful. “decide in your heart …” we need to think about how much we’re going to give,  don’t do it impulsively or emotionally,  make up our own mind — and plan it.  

=> Always voluntary. “not reluctantly or under compulsion,” Never, ever, ever give out of guilt, don’t get credit for it, and it won’t grow your heart.  

=> Always cheerful. “for God loves a cheerful giver.” The word “cheerful” in the Bible is the Greek word “hilarious.” we know the word we get from that — “hilarious.” If we can’t give hilariously, don’t just be a Grinch, be a miser, be a Scrooge. Be generous with our giving, it’s not about the amount you give — it doesn’t have to be about money at all. We can be generous with our time or with our talents, whatever we give, do it thoughtfully, voluntarily, and cheerfully. Hallelujah, God bless