INTRODUCTION
When you think of the word “generosity” what comes to your mind? When we talk about giving and generosity it’s never about the amount that’s given, but it’s always about the heart, it’s about the attitude behind the giving. And the opposite, or the enemy of generosity is selfishness. And if we’re being honest, as human beings our natural tendency is to be selfish! We need God’s help! I heard this statement years ago, “Greed is the assumption that everything that is in my possession is for my consumption.” However, when we get the revelation that everything that we possess is actually God’s (Read Psalm 24:1), and that we are actually managers and not owners, it paves the way for us to live a life-style of generosity.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. What doesn’t the word “generosity” mean to you? How would you describe a generous person?
2. If the earth is the Lord’s (Psalm 24:1) and He owns the cattle on a thousand hills (Psalm 50:10), and all the potatoes underneath, why does he need my money?
3. Where or how have you been challenged, encouraged or blessed in this journey of giving and tithing?
4. As we think about the 3 levels of giving…1. The tithe; 2. Offerings; 3. Extravagant offerings, where do you find yourself? Where do you want to be or go?
5. If generosity is more a matter of the heart than of how many resources I have, how do I navigate this journey? How do I guard my heart from selfishness and deceitfulness (Mark 4:19)?
6. How do I live a “generous” life and still make sure that I have what I need?
7. Why do you think that Jesus made such a big deal about the widow’s mite?
8. Where is God challenging you right now in this area of giving, the tithe, and generosity?

MOVING FORWARD
I heard another statement recently, “Generosity isn’t dependent upon circumstances…it’s about trust and obedience.” Regardless how you look at it, giving, generosity, returning the tithe, giving of extra offerings, etc. boils down to whether we are willing to obey God and then to trust Him with our lives…which includes our finances. Generosity is when you give without any expectation of getting anything in return. And God always rewards that heart attitude. And the other crazy, good thing about this is that everything that God’s asks His children (that’s you) to do is for our own good. Blessing and freedom always follows obedience. And it’s never too late, and it’s never wrong to do the right thing! Be encouraged to embrace this faith journey and watch what your Heavenly Father will do in and through you! Be blessed!