Courageous Generosity (Pt.2)

(Part 2)

“For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”-Matthew 7:2

 

 When we are motivated by love and compassion we measure with a shovel rather than a teaspoon. Our motivation for giving determines how we measure out our offerings. Love and compassion will always give far more than obedience and obligation. It is the difference between whether we sow hours or minutes into something. It is the difference between whether we will sell off a car to help meet a need or just give the change that’s in the cup holder.

 

 When our giving is motivated by love, it not only causes us to give more, but to fear less: 

 

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.”-1 John 4:18. 

 

One of the greatest hindrances to generosity is fear of not having enough to meet our own needs. However, let’s be reminded of what the Apostle wrote to the church in Corinth: 

 

“Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 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.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 9 As the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” 10 For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 11 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God.”-2 Corinthians 9:6-11

 

This passage affirms that God will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. You will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. God promises to make certain that our needs our met, so that we can be a conduit of blessing to others in need. It is a principle Jesus, himself, taught:

“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”-Luke 6:38 

 

With the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. Your ability to be generous is directly tied to you willingness to be generous. True generosity will take you outside what’s comfortable. Jesus not only taught it, he lived it. Jesus gave until it hurt.

 

 

Pastor Scott Burr

Dayspring Community Church