Generosity that Multiplies

By Pastor John Mateos Ong

Luke 21:1-4 says, “While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.”” Giving is not just for the rich; it’s for everybody.

There are so many myths that refer to giving.

• WE CAN BE GENEROUS WHEN WE HAVE MORE THAN ENOUGH.

• GENEROSITY IS A RESPONSIBILITY OF THE WEALTH.

• WE WILL BE GENEROUS WHEN WE ARE READY.

• I CAN ONLY BE GENEROUS WITH MONEY.

1. It’s the heart more than the amount. Luke 12:48 says, “But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.” Generosity is more about the heart than the amount. In Genesis, Adam had 2 sons, Cain and Abel. But Abel gave out of faith while Cain gave out of obligation.

2. God multiplies the faith. He does not multiply whatever it is you gave, but the faith ypu had when you gave it. Genesis 4:3-4 says, “When it was time for the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the Lord. Abel also brought a gift—the best portions of the firstborn lambs from his flock. The Lord accepted Abel and his gift.” Giving to God means giving your best. Anything less is not acceptable to Him. We never know how faithful we are until we are tested. John 6:9-13 tells the story of the 5 loaves and 2 fish. That was all he had hut he gave it anyway. And Jesus used it to feed more than 5000 people, with 12 baskets of bread to spare. Even if you do not have enough, still give. You don’t live your priorities by what you say - you live them by what you sacrifice. Are you generous with your time and talents? Don’t just say that God is your priority. Ask yourself what you are willing to sacrifice for Him.

3. Faithful giving honors God more than impressive giving. 2 Corinthians 9:7-8 says, “You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.” Giving with faith is not normal.

Philippians 4:19 says, “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” Generosity is a faith test knowing God will supply your needs. If He does not answer your prayer woth a “yes,” that means it is not your need.

If He probably gave it to you at that time, you might have been harmed.

Romans 8:32 says, “Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else?” God only had 1 Son and He gave Him to us.

Discern: Don’t be abused.

Discern if you are planting on fertile ground. Discern if it is for you or somwone else. Discern what you will give. Pray for your heart.

Does your sacrifice require faith? Regardless of whether it is time, talent or treasure,  a huge amount of faith is required.