Generosity: A Fruit of the Spirit

Generosity is the fruit of the Spirit that reflects God's benevolent nature in our attitudes and actions. As we have freely received from God, we are called to freely give—going beyond the minimum or expected to meet the needs of others with open hearts and willing hands.

The Biblical Foundation of Generosity

Scripture exhorts us not to refuse those who would borrow from us or to focus on ourselves but to "do to others what we would they do to us…For freely we have received, freely give" (Mt 5:42, 10:8; Lk 6:31; 1 Tim 6:18). The measure we use towards others is the measure that will be used towards us, so sowing bountifully results in abundance while sowing meagerly yields a small harvest (Lk 6:38; Rom 12:8; 2 Cor 9:6-15; Gal 6:9-10).

"Giving freely brings gain, while withholding results in poverty. A generous man will prosper" (Prov 11:24-25). "The righteous give generously...and the generous man will be blessed…It is more blessed to give than receive" (Prov 21:26, 22:9; Act 20:35). From this plentiful supply we can be generous at every appropriate occasion, resulting in praise to God for His indescribable gift—our salvation in Christ who richly gives us all things to enjoy (2 Cor 9:15; 1 Tim 6:17).

Liberality should be reflected in every area of our lives

Walking in Generous Stewardship

The blessings of God are not to be hoarded for ourselves but shared with others (Prov 21:26; Lk 12:16-21). Our lives should be channels—receiving and passing on. The Dead Sea only has water flowing into it but not out, and nothing can live in it. Those who cling selfishly to life, not being willing to expend themselves for the kingdom of God, will forfeit the thrill and blessing of being used by the Lord (Mk 8:35-37).

"The Lord freely shows favour...no good thing will He withhold from those whose walk is blameless. Good will come to him who is generous for He will not withhold anything that will help us to continue to live for Him" (Ps 84:11, 112:5). The Bible is clear: those who are generous in helping people in need will be blessed by God in all their work and in everything they put their hand to (Deut 15:7-11).

Generosity goes beyond the minimum, normal, or what is expected. It is voluntarily going the second mile (Mt 5:41). Jesus instructed, "Invite those to a meal who can't return the gesture" (Lk 14:12-14). By being generous and going out of our way to benefit those in need, we are actually doing this as if to Christ and will be rewarded (Mt 25:34-46).

The Example of Christ

Jesus became poor that we might be rich (2 Cor 8:9). He gave His life that we might have life, and we are to show that same kind of attitude (Phil 2:5-8). Being generous is not just giving out of surplus finance or spare time but often involves a genuine sacrifice of giving from what we need (Mk 12:41-44; 2 Cor 8:2-3).

The most generous gift ever given – our salvation

Be big hearted in your giving, hospitality, faith, and good works—it's a sure method for developing character, as well as wise stewardship of what has been entrusted to us. It is important to maintain the correct order of priorities: being generous towards others comes after our stewardship to God and fulfilling our family responsibilities.

Reflection and Application:

Examine your current giving habits and attitudes toward possessions.
Consider areas where you might grow in generosity beyond financial giving.
Pray for opportunities to meet needs in your community and church.
Reflect on how God's generosity toward you inspires your own giving.