The Generous Life

Outpost 

God has created and equipped us for a life of generosity. He has given us all a unique collection of talents and resources. As His handiwork, we are called to use these gifts to respond to the “two greatest commandments” – to love God and to love His people. Loving others goes hand-in-hand with generosity. You can give without loving but you cannot love without giving.

Ephesians 2:10 We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. 

We are stewards, not owners. God is our provider, and He is the owner of all things. The Generous Life calls us to live with the mindset and character of a steward. A steward is defined as one who manages or looks after another’s property. Our role as stewards is to faithfully manage all that God has given to us. This means that we are accountable for our giftings and possessions and take responsibility for them. As devoted stewards, we seek His will for our lives so that we will be found faithful with how we manage our time, talent, and treasure.

1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover, it is required in stewards that one be found faithful

Stewards are available. Stewards create margin in their lives to be available for the opportunities God lays before them. The enemy doesn’t want us to be available. He wants us to be enslaved to our resources so that we will be ineffective for God’s kingdom. Generosity brings a life of abundance to those who are “rich in good works.”  

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to set their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.

Stewards practice Biblical principles with their resources. Financial freedom comes when we accept and practice biblical principles with our finances. The Bible has much to say about money and possessions including many of Jesus’s parables. Living within our means and the pursuit of contentment are godly practices that help free us from the bondage that comes with the “love of money.” Money is a terrible master but can be an excellent servant.

Mark 8:36 “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul”

Stewards have a heart of generosity. God is a giver. He has given us everything that we have along with an incredible opportunity to spend eternity with Him. As followers of Christ, we can do many godly things – pray, read our bibles and worship. However, we are most like Him when we are giving. Our desire to be like Him includes developing and living with a heart of generosity.