Generosity

– Joyfully giving of my time, talent, and treasure to others no matter how much I have –

Generosity isn’t just about giving away things or money. It’s about sharing our time, our skills, and yes, our possessions. Think about it – which of these is hardest for you to share? For many of us, time can be the biggest challenge. With school, activities, and other responsibilities, it might feel like there’s not enough time to spare. But remember, Jesus always made time for others, even when He was busy.

Who should we share with? The answer might surprise you – everyone! This includes friends, family, strangers, and even people we might not get along with. Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves, and being generous is a big part of that.

You might wonder, “Should I wait until I have more before I start giving?” The Bible actually gives us a clear answer. In 2 Corinthians, we read about people who gave generously despite having very little. This shows us that we can be generous no matter how much or how little we have.

Being a “cheerful giver” doesn’t mean you have to be excited about giving all the time. It simply means giving willingly, not because you feel forced. When we give with a positive attitude, it often brings us joy in return. Have you experienced this?

Generosity is closely linked to hospitality – welcoming others and making them feel at home. This could be as simple as including someone new in your group at school or helping a visitor find their way around.

Here’s an interesting thought: adoption can be seen as a form of generosity. It’s about opening your heart and home to someone who needs a family. The Bible tells us that God has adopted us as His children, which is a beautiful picture of His generosity towards us.

This week, try to do one generous act each day. It doesn’t have to be big – maybe share your lunch, help with chores without being asked, or offer a kind word to someone who seems down. Notice how it makes you feel, and how it might brighten someone else’s day.

Remember, every time we give generously, we’re reflecting God’s love and becoming more like Jesus. That’s something truly special.

“You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.“ – 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT)