“The focus of generosity is the contribution we make in the life of others.”

A thought by Erwin Raphael McManus (2003-09-04) from his book, Uprising: A Revolution of the Soul (Kindle Location 2350). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.

Generosity is the opposite of greed. But some people have the mistaken idea that it is connected in the CHRISTian life with what we get in return. They don’t say that but they believe it and live it. They give to get.

Erwin goes on to say though that “God’s goal for all of us is not that we become affluent. God’s goal is that we become generous. When your pursuit is for wealth, you leave generosity behind.”

Do you remember the parables of the talents? Three servants were given varied amounts of money by their master and they were to make more. Two of them doubled theirs but one hid his and that one wasn’t rewarded but punished. Do you realize that what they were doubling was not for them but for their master? It was his money. Their reward was in the deep satisfaction of being faithful to their master.

Generosity means giving not getting. HE doesn’t give to us so we can keep, HE gives so we can give. HE loves and rewards a cheerful giver in more ways than just money.

So how are you doing on this one?

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