Generous Living | Healthy Habits
Healthy Habits
Generous Living
“Generosity isn’t about what we have; it’s about who we are becoming”
Soul Tattoo: Generous living starts with a willing heart and leaves a lasting impact for God’s glory.
John 6:1-14 (The Feeding of the Five Thousand)
Steps to Generous Living
1. Generous Living Starts with a Willing Heart
Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many? (John 6:9 NIV)
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV)
2. Generous Living Trusts God with the Outcome
Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. (John 6:11 NIV)
And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:8 NIV)
3. Generous Living Focuses on Others
They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. (John 6:12-13 NIV)
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. (Philippians 2:3 NIV)
“You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.” – John Bunyan
4. Generous Living Leaves a Legacy
After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, ‘Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world. (John 6:14 NIV)
Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age. (1 Timothy 6:18-19 NIV)
What would your life look like if you embraced generosity as a way of living rather than an occasional act?
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill
Four practical ways to cultivate a habit of generous living:
#1 Start Small
“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much.”
(Luke 16:10 NIV)
#2 Give Regularly
#3 Practice Gratitude
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.” – Melody Beattie
#4 Trust God’s Provision
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19 NIV)