Bible Study & Devotional 241
Read Today’s Assigned Passages
Guiding Scripture: Proverbs 22:9 ‘The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.’
Thoughtful Generosity
Written by Torrie Slaughter
Being liberal with our time, assets, or talents is scientifically proven to increase joy. Our overall understanding of happiness propels us to bond with others. One could say that great relationships are a by-product of generosity.
Could you imagine a society that celebrates charity above consumption?
Well, until that glorious day when Christ returns, we can use Proverbs 22:9 as a guide. Consider your ‘stuff.’ Do you own things that would be beneficial to someone else? Of course, you do; we all have such items. The next step is to consider being generous.
Prepare to Give
Sometimes giving what we think we need is challenging. No one wants to go without comfort, especially if you’ve toiled hard for it. But the Lord reminds us in Deuteronomy 15:10, “Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.”
Although we should never do things with the expectation to receive, God tells us He will pour out blessings for our good works.
How to Give
Once the Holy Spirit has prompted you to contribute, do it with joy. The more you consciously decide to love others, the easier it becomes to give God the glory for your abundance.
In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul reminds us, “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.”
Just like the church at Corinth dealt with scarcity mindsets, we are also challenged by this debilitating practice. But, we can choose to be joyful and pray through the process.
What to Give
All gifts are valuable in the kingdom. It isn’t just about money, property, food, or clothing; we can give our time and talents. Yes, they may go unnoticed or unappreciated but remember God sees everything, and ultimately we will answer to Him. Do all things as though unto Christ and find creative ways to uplift, inspire, and motivate those entrusted to you.
In Romans 12:8, Paul writes about this type of generosity, “if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”
When to Give
The Word of God teaches us to continue practicing generosity as God has abundantly blessed us with eternal life through Christ Jesus. We can pray for renewed strength and keep Galatians 6:9 inscribed on our hearts.
“Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Prayer: Lord, help us to recognize Your incredible wisdom. We know everything belongs to You. Help us to worship You and You alone. Amen.
The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan
Monday, August 29, 2022
Job 31:1-33:33, 2 Corinthians 3:1-18, Psalm 43:1-5, Proverbs 22:8-9
Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan
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Torrie is a media ministry consultant who works with churches and faith driven organizations to build their ministry team. She is the Blueprint Specialist uncovering root problems to construct solutions. Want to hear more? Tune in and listen to A Daily Purpose Bible Study & Devotional a podcast by Our Given Purpose and on Fridays to Talking on Purpose with Torrie the Podcast. Torrie also hosts a YouTube channel of the same name.
