“…and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35b

Anyone who has raised a child knows that no toddler has to be taught the word “mine” or how to take a toy from another child. As human beings we are intrinsically egocentric. Thinking of others is not a natural action for us. Generosity must be taught and fostered in each of us.
In Luke 12:13-21 Jesus shares a spontaneous parable with a man who wants Jesus to tell his brother to divide his father’s inheritance. It’s clear from Jesus’ parable that this man was already well off. His parable is about a man who planted a significant harvest and when it came time to harvest, his barns were too small. So he torn down his barns and built larger barns and said to himself, “…you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ That night the man died and all his abundance was lost.
The point to Jesus’ parable is selfishness versus generosity. It’s also a reminder that we may sow seeds but it is God who brings the harvest. When we give we show our gratitude towards God and declare that He is our provider and portion.

“give, and it will be given to you.” Luke 6:38

We give because God has blessed us. God blesses us so that we would be a blessing to others. So if we withhold will it be withheld from us?

Giving makes us like God because God is a giver.
Giving is the antidote to coveting.
Giving displays our priorities in life.
Giving reveals that God is my provider and my portion.
Giving demonstrates my trust in God.

Cultivate an attitude of giving. Look for opportunities that require sacrifice and give of your resources and time. When you give you will never be without. Discover the joy and blessing in giving and take hold of the character and nature of God you were created in! Giving is way better!