In my journey toward greater life balance, few things rattled me more than the discovery of how selfish and self-centered I was. Even though I have been a follower of Jesus for over 50 years, an honest look inward revealed a heart that was more miserly, materialistic, and me-centered rather than others-centered,

I had to confess that consumption, consumerism, and a hidden craving for more characterized a critical part of my life. Even though my lifestyle, car, home, or financial portfolio wouldn’t necessarily indicate wealth by most western standards, none the less the internal indicators were there, my “check engine light” was on. I have made some significant changes the past few years. I have embraced minimalism. I’ve read multiple books that have deeply impacted my thinking, resulting in changes in my consumption habits, consumerism mindset, and has motivated and moved me toward a life of greater contentment. Today, I have a much different outlook on money, possessions and stuff. But there is one area that I still need to grow and mature in, and that’s generosity!

A dictionary definition of generosity includes readiness or liberality in giving, and bountifulness. It’s an abundance and plenty mindset.  Generosity shows no evidence of a mean spirit or stinginess. It entails goodness, hospitality, kindness and unselfishness. Sincere or genuine generosity is without pretense or hypocrisy, Genuine generosity is sacrificial.

Proverbs 11:24-25 says, “There is one who scatters, yet increases more; And there is one who withholds more than is right, but it leads to poverty. The generous soul will be made rich. And he who waters will also be watered himself.”

Ken Blanchard author of “The Generosity Factor”, written in a story format, chronicles the life of Truett Cathy the founder of Chick Fil A. An amazing example of a man who exemplified generosity throughout his life. The book teaches generosity by telling his story, but you don’t know it’s Truett Cathy until the very end of the book. Throughout the story Blanchard masterfully reveals 5 priceless gems for living a life of genuine generosity. The secret to living a generous life is HEART.

• H-He owns everything, The He is referring to God- He owns it all. If you fail to recognize and acknowledge this, generosity will be illusive. E- Every day is an opportunity – look for new ways every day to impact the lives of others through generosity. A- Action is required. – It’s one thing to think about helping others, it’s another to actually do it. R- Remember your blessings. – Not simply material things, but health, family, friends, salvation, God’s unconditional love. Remember both the tangible and intangible blessings. T-Thank Him (God). It’s the only way to remind ourselves we aren’t the center of the universe; we aren’t self-sufficient at all. A life of gratitude results in generosity.

Generosity isn’t something carefully calculated, it’s not something done for show. If its genuine, generosity come from the heart.

The motive and mindset for generosity is not “work to live”, but instead to “work and live to give.” Generosity is wholistic it’s not just about giving money or material possessions. It’s about giving of our time, talents, treasure, and touch,

The primary personal example that has changed me the most toward living a life of generosity is my wife, Tammy. Her primary spiritual gifts are hospitality and giving. Although she is highly cost conscious, can make a buck scream, and understands the need to live on a budget, if it were up to her, she would be fine if our bank account balances hovered in the double-digit range. God has used her to chisel away at my materialistic mindset to cultivate a generous heart.

Of course, the most remarkable and amazing example of generosity ever, is found in God Himself. For God so loved the world, that He GAVE His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.

Giving, gratitude and living a life of genuine generosity is one of life’s greatest joys.

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