We have just spent 5 weeks pursuing a journey toward a generous life. I hope God has provided some conviction and direction as to what that may look like for your life and for our church ministry. Here is a summary of what we discovered on our journey. May the Holy Spirit empower us to live out this way of life in Christ.

A generous life discovers that there is treasure to be found in God that is far surpassing and more lasting than the treasures of earth--worth laying down everything in order to obtain it (See the parable Jesus told in Matthew 13:44)

A generous life flows out of a grateful heart
True generosity begins with the discovery of a generous God

A generous life displays joy and freedom--it is not guarded and does not clutch onto it's own stuff

A generous life pursues a different dream--the same dream as Jesus—a new kingdom, an upside-down kingdom
Justice and mercy for others; breaking the strangle hold of sin;
hope and healing for the discouraged and broken; forgiveness for
sinners; a higher cause--God’s goodness and truth, eternal treasures;

A generous life pours out abundantly into God's purposes. God's purposes don’t mainly focus on comfort or happiness, new experiences, accumulating wealth, or stunning success. A generous life has the self-control from the Holy Spirit to stop chasing after these pursuits.

Those who love money never have enough; those who love wealth
are never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.
Ecclesiastes 5:10

A generous life trusts in God's provision--whether much or little--believing in God there is enough.

A generous life steps out in faith knowing that as one seeks God's purposes, God's provision will be adequate for us
Matthew 6: 25-34 Don't worry about food or clothing. God sees your needs.
Seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness and these things
will be given to you as well.
Abraham is a good example in Genesis 15 and 22
Genesis 22:14 Abraham called that place "the Lord will provide" (Jehovah
Jireh) Translations: The Lord sees; The Lord provides;
The Lord will be seen;

In the midst of a world of greed, ie more, more, more, the generous life is content with God's provision.

However, the generous life understands that MORE of God's reign--in and through Jesus Christ--is breaking into this world and willingly offers more to this movement of God.

When God grants a large portion, the generous life gives thanks and sees it as an opportunity to offer more of oneself and one’s resources to God’s Kingdom purposes.

A generous life knows that God owns everything.

A generous life is a consecrated life—setting aside oneself and all of one's resources as a sacred offering to Go--wholeheartedly devoted to one who is higher than oneself;

Each one must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly
or under compulsion. 2 Corinthians 9: 7

A generous life is wholeheartedly devoted to God because God is worthy!
See I Chronicles 29: 1-20

A generous life gives God a regular standard of giving--the first portion of one's income. This could be a tithe (10%) or whatever God has compelled you to give to demonstrate your devotion and God’s worthiness.

A generous life realizes that God is still the owner of the remaining portion (90%) and its use should honor God.

A generous life also wholeheartedly worships, serves, and blesses other--not half-heartedly or under compulsion.

God bless you good, faithful, and generous servant.