Most of the studies I have seen show most Americans are not as generous as we think. It is disappointing to see the giving percentage of those who make more than $100,000 and many of those in government. The dollar amounts may seem generous, but they tend to be less than 3% of total income. I also would not be surprised to see that we spend more on pet food, pet toys and pet care than we do in giving. Perhaps that is why the Salvation Army has bell-ringers trying to get change in their red kettles. Indeed, those who have less income apparently are more generous in the true sense of the word. Sadly, these words don’t describe most people: “munificent, generous, bountiful, magnanimous, philanthropic, charitable and big-hearted.”

If you are rich in the present age, God has this to say in 1 Timothy: “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” 6:17-19 ESV May I ask, “What are we teaching our children about giving?”

Even in the Proverbs, which deal with financial wisdom, God says the following: “Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.” Prov. 14:31

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” Prov. 19:7

“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner; but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.” Prov. 14:21