One can give without loving, but one cannot love without giving. As I ponder on this statement, there is a question that arises: what would be the difference between the one that gives without loving and the one that gives because they love? The distinction would be the generosity of the heart. One gives out of obligation while the other gives from the abundance of gratefulness that flows through their heart.
Generosity is more than an action, it is a character trait. A generous person is free from poverty of the mind where they think little, everything is of an abundant nature. They are liberal in their giving in all areas of their lives because it was first impressed upon them by the One who gave liberally, even to death, out of love. A generous person is also unselfish by nature. How could one hold back anything that was given in the first place? This truth is what abounds and compels them to give more. Finally, a generous person is always rich in spirit. Because they have made seeking God’s kingdom their first priority, they abide in the fruits of the Spirit and they are assured that they will not lack any good thing, so giving will never become a mundane chore, but a joyful celebration.
Our example of generosity and everything that involves Christian living should be Jesus the Christ. He lived an exceedingly generous life. He was unselfish with His time, He loved who the world would consider unlovable, and He healed, taught, and preached out of pure love for us. Allow generosity to rule over your heart so your actions may follow, generously speaking of course!
~ Toni H.
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