Are you thinking about paychecks, taxes and bills? I was last night. I found a great article online about generosity and money. Turns out that the author is one Dan Miller. Perhaps you know him?
Here is part of what Dan wrote —
We are naturally greedy, especially in America. God has blessed us with so much and, yet, we want more. We confuse needs and wants. We are materialistic, covetous, and discontent.
While the Bible is clear about the sinfulness and deceit of greed, we don’t see it in ourselves. We don’t see the problem. We don’t see how it affects our relationship with God.
Essential Way 1: Give to Your Local Church
God has specially designed the Church (read: Bride of Christ) to represent Jesus, magnify God, build up the saints, and preach the truth.
As you can see, God views the church highly. You should too. God wants you to give to the local church to support this ongoing ministry. Your offering helps heat the building, support the pastors (thanks!), and funds world-wide missions. Give, and give generously.
Essential Way 2: Creatively Be Generous to Others
Obvious Statement 1: Instead of always spending your money on yourself, spend it on others.
Obvious Statement 2: After all, God’s the One who gave you that money in the first place.
Obvious Statement 3: Other people will really like it if you are generous to them.
Five quick ideas:
– pay for everyone when you go out to eat
– buy a friend a book you like
– pick up a nice gift for your folks
– over-tip
– get someone a gift card and slip it to them anonymously
Result of Giving: Joy! (Don’t believe me? Try it!)