God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them. Hebrews 6:10
“People who practice extravagant generosity change their lives in order to become more generous. They become rich in giving. They do not wait to be asked. When they see a need, they step forward to meet it, offering resources as a means of help. They look at difficult financial times through the eyes of faith rather than of fear. They persist in doing good. They give in all seasons. They enjoy giving. They pray and hope and dream about the good they accomplish through their gifts. They consecrate their giving to God. They delight in generosity. They expect nothing in return.
People who practice extravagant generosity learn to enjoy things without possessing them, to moderate their acquisitiveness, and to find satisfaction in simpler things. They avoid personal debt as much as possible. They save. They avoid overindulgence and waste. Their possessions do not rule them. They aspire, like Paul, to know the secret of being content with what they have. They give thanks in all circumstances. Love is a gift, and life is grace. People who practice extravagant generosity change lives. Their giving knows no bounds. They are rich toward God.”
Robert Schnase in Practicing Extravagant Generosity: Daily Readings on the Grace of Giving (Nashville: Abingdon, 2011) 65-66.
Hat tip to our son, Sammy, who as of today has officially moved into to his own one-bedroom apartment. This post describes his living, giving, serving, and loving. He sees needs and meets them. He inconveniences himself to aid others. He persists in doing good all around. He avoids overindulgence while being ready to serve and share with others.
Would people say you practice extravagant generosity? Pick a phrase in this post that marks an area for growth in your life. Pray and as God to help you grow in that aspect of the Christian faith so that your living, giving, serving, and loving blesses others extravagantly. I did this, and I hope you too find the spiritual practice useful.
After a safe trip to Egypt, I am off to Australia today. God graciously gave me rest though I am only home about 24 hours between trips. Sometimes that’s just the way the schedule goes. I am most thankful that my wife, Jenni, practices extravagant generosity and richly supports me to minister to God’s people around the world.