Be Like Jesus: Radiating The Generous Heart of God (Def) Generosity Freely giving of ourselves—time, resources, love—as a reflection of God’s abundant generosity. 2 Corinthians 9:1-8 (NLT) I really don’t need to write to you about this ministry of giving for the believers in Jerusalem. 2 For I know how eager you are to help, and I have been boasting to the churches in Macedonia that you in Greece were ready to send an offering a year ago. In fact, it was your enthusiasm that stirred up many of the Macedonian believers to begin giving. 3 But I am sending these brothers to be sure you really are ready, as I have been telling them, and that your money is all collected. I don’t want to be wrong in my boasting about you. 4 We would be embarrassed—not to mention your own embarrassment—if some Macedonian believers came with me and found that you weren’t ready after all I had told them! 5 So I thought I should send these brothers ahead of me to make sure the gift you promised is ready. But I want it to be a willing gift, not one given grudgingly. 7 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.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. Big Idea If we believe God will always generously provide everything we need, we will become the type of givers who radiate & reflect Jesus. Your generosity flows from in God’s abundance. 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NLT) And God will generously provide all you need…you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. If you believe God will always provide everything you need, you become a: giver. – Your generosity will begin in your heart, not in your wallet. 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT) You must each decide in your heart how much to give. giver. – Your motivation to give should avoid pain or pressure. 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT) …And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. giver. – Your cheerful giving radiates the character of your God. 2 Corinthians 9:5,7 (NLT) But I want it to be a willing gift, not one given grudgingly…”For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” What Now? Be bold enough to ask yourself an inspection question. Where am I living from fear instead of trust? Why am I gripping & clinging too tightly? How has God already been generous toward me personally? Who has God brought around me that needs to experience the generosity of Jesus through my life? Continuing the Conversation 1. Why do you think joyful generosity is often difficult in modern American culture? 2. When you think about God’s generosity toward you personally, what stands out most strongly right now? 3. In what areas of life are you most tempted to live with a scarcity mindset instead of trusting God’s abundance? 4. Is there one practical way you can reflect the generosity of Jesus this week with your time, resources, or attention?