First, the Christian should be the most generous. In speaking with a local small business owner, he was sharing how many times the people he hears most complaints from regarding product pricing are Christians. This is not the case with all Christians he serves, but with many of them. He was sharing how this has created a negative perception of Christians amongst his non-Christian employees. Many times, things may not be in our budget now, but the way we react will speak volumes as to our character, which should imitate the character of Christ.

I have also seen homeless folks mistreated or criticized by Christians in our local community. I understand that we are not to do for people what they can do for themselves, however, there are times when people are truly in need. If God has given us the means to help, let us be willing to do so. We should seek to be in tune with God’s leading every day. If He puts someone in our path to help, let us put judgement aside and answer the call.

The Bible has numerous verses when it comes to generosity, one of which is: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.â€�¹ When we give generously, with a joyful heart, God sees that and will bless you because of it. The Bible also says, “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work… You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.â€�²

Generosity does not only refer to monetary donations, but can also refer to things such as time, friendship, or sharing a meal with someone in need. It means giving joyfully of whatever we have for the benefit of another. May we daily seek to attract others to Christ through our generosity.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for being the perfect example of what it means to be generous. You gave your beloved Son, Jesus, so that I can have the gift of forgiveness and eternal life. You did not focus on how undeserving I was, but rather on who I could be through your Son. I ask that you give me a joyful attitude of giving and give me the willingness to be generous in whatever way I can. May others come to know you through this. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1. Luke 6:38 (NIV).

2. 2 Corinthians 9:7-8, 11 (NIV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B.