Spiritual Generosity
By Greg Laurie
BIBLE VERSE OF THE DAY: “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
There is perhaps no clearer evidence of spiritual maturity than financial generosity. Martin Luther said, “There are three conversions necessary: the conversion of the heart, the mind, and the purse.”
This is often the last area we turn over to God. We want to retain complete control. We’re uncomfortable when the topic is even brought up. It may be that our discomfort is an indication that this area is not in its proper order in our lives as Christians.
The Bible addresses the subject quite frequently. It is worth noting that money is such an important topic in the Bible that it is the main subject of nearly half the parables Jesus told. In addition, one in every seven verses in the New Testament deals with the topic.
To give you an idea of how this compares with other themes, the Bible offers about 500 verses on prayer, less than 500 regarding faith, and 2,000 verses about money. God wants this area to be in balance in our lives.
Most churches are supported financially by a relatively small percentage of people who have discovered the joy of giving. I would even venture to say that as a result, these people have also discovered the secret of contentment.
Let's pray now for a spirit of generosity and a heart of contentment:
Heavenly Father, do not let us covet worldly things. Instead, help us to build up treasures in heaven where nothing can wear them away. In Your Name we pray, Amen.
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