The Paradox Of Generosity – Part 2

Generosity is a paradox.

Paradoxical statements appear to contradict logic. Take Proverbs 11:24-25. “One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; and whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” According to a study by Ascent, acting more generously is correlated with feeling more satisfied with life and career. Meaning and satisfaction are associated with making a difference in something bigger than ourselves and connecting to the feeling that we’re making a positive contribution to those around us.

Generosity gives a sense of control in a chaotic world. Having a choice about giving helps you feel empowered because you can engage in ways that are most meaningful to you. Giving grants freedom from materialism, greed, and coveting. It frees you from the control of mammon and the heartache of material loss. The eternal benefits for Christians are huge. Everything God made was designed to give…water, air, soil, flowers, and leaves.  It would be destructive to the perpetuation of society if giving suddenly ceased. “God so loved us that He gave us His only son that whoever believes in Him would have eternal life.” (John 3:16) And, “…you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” (2 Corinthians 8:9) Giving is good for us. It grants meaning and purpose to life, and more importantly, it demonstrates our deep appreciation for the grace and goodness of God.

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