Generosity and giving are subjects close to my heart—and my husband’s too. I’ll admit, it’s much easier to practice generosity than to write about it, at least for me. The Bible has so much to say on this subject; I’ve jotted down 29 scriptures so far, and I know I’ve only scratched the surface. It’s a rewarding topic to study.
When we talk about generosity, it isn’t just about money. It’s also about giving our time, talents, and treasures—all for God’s glory.
Giving Tuesday: A Reminder to Give
As I write this, it’s Giving Tuesday, a global phenomenon celebrating generosity. According to Modern Day Missions Magazine, over $3 billion was donated on this day last year! Clearly, people everywhere recognize the truth in Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
Joe and I have seen this blessing firsthand in our lives, as I’m sure many of you have too. But my journey toward generosity wasn’t always easy.
From Scarcity to Generosity
I didn’t grow up in a “giving” household. My parents worked multiple jobs just to make ends meet, and giving wasn’t something we talked about. Funny enough, as a child, I didn’t even realize how poor we were. It wasn’t until middle school—when we moved to a new state and a new school—that I noticed the gap between what my friends had and what I didn’t.
After high school, I lived with my best friend’s wealthy family on their ranch, rent-free. It was a gift, but it also sparked in me an unhealthy focus on material things. I became greedy, selfish, and discontent.
When I eventually struck out on my own, money was tight again. My mindset shifted to what some call a “poverty spirit,” where scarcity and lack overshadow any thoughts of abundance or giving. As ChatGPT explains, this mindset focuses on limitation rather than possibility. It’s a perspective that makes generosity almost impossible.
But the Bible teaches us to think differently:
“The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”
Proverbs 11:25
“God loves a cheerful giver.”
2 Corinthians 9:7
“Whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
2 Corinthians 9:6
These promises aren’t just words—they’re truths Joe and I have experienced.
The Turning Point
When I met Joe, everything changed. By nature, he’s the most generous person I know. He gave even when I thought we couldn’t afford to. Through a series of disasters that led us to bankruptcy, Joe convinced an IRS agent to let us keep tithing. Only God could soften an IRS agent’s heart like that!
Through every difficulty, God provided. We always had what we needed and often more than we expected.
A Lesson in Real-Time
Here’s a funny story from today:
I had a doctor’s appointment that ran long, and afterward, I stopped by Randall’s pharmacy to pick up a prescription. At the entrance, volunteers were collecting donations for children. In my rush to get home and write this very blog about giving, I brushed them off, saying, “Oh, we’re already donating through our church!”
As I walked to my car, I felt a tug on my heart. The Holy Spirit was gently reminding me: “You’re writing about generosity, but you can’t spare five minutes to practice it?”
Still, I got in my car and started to drive away. But the conviction didn’t leave me. So I turned around, parked again, and walked back to give. The man at the table smiled and said, “That was so sweet of you to come back.”
Little did he know the battle I’d fought in those few moments!
Generosity With the Right Heart
One lesson I’ve learned is that giving isn’t just about the act—it’s about the heart.
In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul says:
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
2 Corinthians 9:7
In my early days of giving, my heart wasn’t always cheerful. Sometimes, I gave out of fear or obligation. Over time, God’s grace transformed my attitude, and now giving brings me so much joy.
Humility in Giving
Generosity can come with a hidden pitfall: seeking recognition. Early in our journey, Joe and I fell into the trap of enjoying the accolades that came with giving. But Jesus warns us in Matthew 6:3-4:
“When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Matthew 6:3-4
If we give for attention, that fleeting praise is our only reward. True generosity requires humility—giving without expecting anything in return.
Closing Thoughts
Generosity is a journey. It’s about trusting God, even when giving feels risky. It’s about listening to the Holy Spirit’s gentle nudges, even when they challenge us. And it’s about cultivating a heart that delights in giving for its own sake.
Malachi 3:10 says:
“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in!”
Malachi 3:10
We’ve found this promise to be true. The more we give, the more God provides. And while material blessings are nice, the spiritual rewards—joy, faith, and a closer relationship with God—are even greater.
Listen below if you want to hear more from Barbara about how God wants us to put His love into action. Barbara and her husband, Joe, have a conversation with Candace Nassar, MomQ founder and executive director, in this podcast episode. It is a testimony of Joe and Barbara’s 42 years of marriage and a love story of how God transformed their hearts. Today they are an example for all couples who are seeking a deeper, more God-centered relationship with each other.
At MomQ we believe that motherhood is a calling from God. While it is both a privilege and an honor, it is by no means easy! Moms have a lot of questions/concerns and need caring support along their journey. Whether you are a brand new mom or a little more seasoned, MomQ is here to help you fulfill your God given role. Don’t see a group in your area? Contact us today about starting one in your community!
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