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. 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.’ And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8

 

Believe it or not, the global pandemic made us all more generous!

Despite the economic hardships experienced worldwide, since the pandemic, more people than ever gave money to help others, according to a global charity tracking organization.[1] Do you consider yourself a generous person—or more like the man who was asked by a beggar, “If you had two houses, would you give one to me?”

The man said, yes, he would. The beggar then asked the man, “And if you had two cars, would you give one to me?” Once again, the man agreed he would do it. Lastly, the beggar asked the man, “And if you had two chickens, would you give one to me?” To this question, the man immediately said “no. “When asked why he’d said no this time, the man answered that he owned two chickens and had no intention of giving one away.

Theoretical generosity is easy. But it’s much harder to share what we actually have. The Bible gives us very practical guidelines for growing in generosity. It says, “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. 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.’ And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8).

Think about the needs of those around you. The seed of generosity you plant today will bear fruit in both others, and in you.

[1] “World Giving Index 2022 – Charities Aid Foundation (CAF).” Charities Aid Foundation, 2022, www.cafonline.org/docs/default-source/about-us-research/caf_world_giving_index_2022_210922-final.pdf.