Generosity in giving is a matter of personal spiritual integrity. Paul says: “Each person should give what they have decided in their heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
At St. John’s, we are moving to a Biblical and spiritually rewarding paradigm of financial giving: Giving a percentage of our income back to God as an act of worship.
Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
~ Luke 12:33-34
What radical generosity is (and is not)
Radical generosity is an orientation of the heart (not a sporadic activity).
Radical generosity is a way of life (not a thing that we do).
Radical generosity is something that we grow into as we mature spiritually (not something that happens overnight).
How radical generosity leads to spiritual growth
- It promises a deeper and more fulfilling spiritual life
- It defines us as disciples of Jesus Christ
- It creates “spiritual room” for God to bless us with more
- It releases us from the grip of materialism.
Practical steps to radical generosity
- Move away from dollar figures and think in terms of proportions.
- Set a generosity benchmark that you will set for yourself and won’t go below. Then, begin working towards that benchmark.
- Enjoy the act of giving away your money to causes that are greater than you. Savor each opportunity to be a generous giver.
- Remember the church when it comes to your giving.
