Creating Memories and Teaching By Example

Live Generously

Cindie and I recently received some nice t shirts that have a message on the front. The message is “Live Generously.” A person who is generous has a “bountiful eye” – Proverbs 22:9. Gifts are the outworking of a generous soul. You aren’t generous, charitable or giving if you accumulate more-and-more for your own pleasures and disregard others.

Luke 6:38 also speaks of generosity. Here is what Jesus said:

“…give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Apparently there is something special about generous giving that God is very pleased to see.

Giving to the One Who Asks: Trip Number One

When our oldest granddaughter, Violet, graduated from high school she came with a request. She wanted to know if Cindie and I would consider taking her on a trip as a graduation gift. That was a delightful idea. I wish I had thought of it.

She did not have to beg (Matthew 5:42). When it comes to our grandchildren we desire to live generously. That is one reason we established UTMA accounts for each of them and also gifted them with money to open Fidelity Youth Accounts.

“God is seeking people who will reflect His character and model His generosity. He delights to bless them and show Himself strong on their behalf. In 2 Corinthians 9:6–15, Paul exhorts the church to be generous in their giving to the Lord’s work. And he praises the Philippians for being so generous to him, adding that it is not for himself that he rejoices but for them—they will be blessed because of their gift (Philippians 4:17). We can apply these encouragements to our own lives and strive to be generous and wise with everything God has entrusted to us.” – Got Questions

Trip Number Two: Mia

When we took Violet on her graduation trip, we went to the place she requested. We went to the Hawaiian Islands and visited Oahu, Kaui and the Big Island. Trip number two was with granddaughter number two: Mia. She also requested someplace warm: Hawaii. We enjoyed our time with her (including a zip line adventure) to Oahu, Kaui and Maui.

Trip Number Three: Noelle

Lord willing, we will be flying to Costa Rica this coming Tuesday with granddaughter number three, Noelle (left side of the above image). It may be a bit hot there, but I’m looking forward to thawing out for several days. We don’t have an agenda, other than to “live generously” and continue to teach generosity by example.

It Doesn’t End There

Generosity isn’t an event. It is a more like a life mission. Generous living is multiple events every day. It doesn’t have to be grand to be generous. If you have the resource, and you see a need, consider how you might be a living lesson in generosity.

All scripture passages are from the English Standard Version except as otherwise noted.

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