By Brian Becker | May 20, 2021
As a small boy, late at night in bed I overheard my parents have intense discussions that at first seemed to be arguments. But I discovered that their discussions were about whether or not to tithe during months when they had little income as poor farmers. Invariably, they’d end up writing checks to the church and other organizations first and then pay their other bills. This lesson went deep into my soul. No matter how little was in the bank, being generous always came first. They were also active volunteers in our community and quick to help neighbors in need.
Here are seven lessons I learned from my parents’ generosity:
Plenty – Regardless of how little we had, there was always enough when we put our faith and others first.
Humility – It’s humbling to see the results of gifts given, regardless of size or type.
Fulfillment – It’s fulfilling to live “open-handed” and learn that eventually God will bless both the giver and the receiver.
Muscle – Generosity is a spiritual gift somewhat like a muscle that develops…the more I use it the stronger it gets.
Abundance – My willingness to become more generous over time has transformed my heart. I believe that the world, with all its problems, is also one of amazing abundance where resources abound just waiting to be unearthed.
Blessings – I’ve realized that my giving, whether time, ideas or money, will never be missed by me. To the contrary, generosity has always brought me more blessings. The world is not a “zero-sum game” as some people seem to believe.
Open Hand – Living with an “open hand” versus a “closed fist” always wins.
Living out these lessons is difficult under normal times, but the challenges we have faced over the past 15 months make it even harder. I know people who have lost jobs and people who suffered stress and loss because they’re health care workers. I know numerous people who have had COVID-19 and still suffer its lingering effects, and one of my friends died and his family is grieving his loss. I know those who have been treated with hate and disrespect simply because of their skin color. These issues rage on and demonstrate the hardness of our hearts.
In stark contrast, as I write this I am sitting in complete quiet listening to the rain fall outside of my window. I am healthy. I am fulfilled by my work, which pays me adequately. My life is infinitely easy compared to those I just mentioned.
So…what will I do about the contrast between my blessings and a hurting world? Two important things:
First, I’m committing to be more generous this year with the resources God has given me, and I pray that God will guide my giving in such a way that it does tangible good in a world that desperately needs help, hope and healing.
Second, I’m encouraging you and asking you to do the same. What can you do with your blessings of time, abilities, money or other resources? Please respond so that what you do is pleasing to God, fulfilling to you and helps a worthy cause.
I suspect that because you’re reading this you are already a generous person and at the same time may have the capacity to do more. So, I’m inviting you to join me today to do just that. Let’s live together with a spirit of joy and generous abundance.
“Each of you should decide what is in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7
Brian Becker serves as the Chair for the Dynamis Ministries Board of Directors. He is also a consultant and executive leadership coach to nonprofits. Through collaborative work with his clients, Brian helps design transformational plans that builds stronger and more effective boards, raises more money, and creates a larger organizational impact.
