DATE: 10th Nov, 2024
PLACE: PCG- New Vision Congregation – Larbikrom
OCCASION: Induction of District YPG Executive
THEME: Generosity.
BIBLE READINGS: 1Kings 17:8-16, Hebrews 9:24-28 & Mark. 12:38-44.
INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND.
Generosity is a key pillar in Christianity. It is emphasised throughout the scriptures as a
reflection of God’s nature. It involves a heart that is willing to give freely for the benefit of
others. A generous person does not count his / her gain before extending a helping hand to the
next person. In the scriptures, God is presented as a generous giver (Jh. 3:16, Jam 1:17). Other
bible texts also talk much about generosity and the benefits of such act (Prov 11:25, Act 2:44-
45, 2 Cor 9:6-7).
Beloved, generosity is not limited to financial giving, but also giving your time, talents, material
belongings and many more to persons or institutions without thinking of getting it back. Out of
a generous attitude, many people became blessed, opportunities came their way and doors were
opened to people. A call to reflect on the theme “Generosity” is a call deemed necessary and in
the right direction. It is my prayer that at the end of it all, we will be ready to practicalize the
theme and hence become blessed.
BODY
The Text
a. 1Kings 17:8-16
The story is already known by most of us especially those of us who have gone through
children's service class and were attentive in class. We have here Elijah as a prophet of God who
has informed King Ahab about drought (no rain) for a number of years. God directed Elijah to
flee the place and move to Zarephath where he will meet a widow who will take care of him by
feeding him.
Beloved, whatever happened between Elijah and the widow lives in the church of today with
many more lessons to apply concerning generosity, God’s blessings and faith.
You need great faith to be able to give generously
The blessings of God come after a test of faith – whosoever wants to experience the
supernatural blessings of God must learn to pass this test. As a church leader (various
church groups) by people within and out of church. Will you pass or fail?
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The widow was not an Israelite, yet she gave her all to a prophet who was an Israelite,
leaving her and the son with nothing to eat – we must not be generous to only our own or
people known to us.
Our current situation should not affect any act of generosity we can offer – she was a
widow, had the last flour and oil, had her son to feed and then waited for death to come
for them yet she was not boarded but was generous to Elijah. Friends, are we able to do
the same or do we only give out and help others when we have in abundance?
b. Mark 12:38-44
In the text read for us the story of Jesus warns us not to be like the scribes, who like to show off
their riches and always give a little of what they have and exploit others to their benefit. Jesus
went on to use the story of the widow who offered to God all her possessions to teach us great
lessons of generosity. We realized that the widow was someone:
a. Who has great needs – she has no parents and children looking after her.
b. Who offered out of gratitude – generously than all the rich persons in the temple.
c. Trusted in the provision of God – that God will always supply her needs.
d. Willing to give despite her poverty
Lessons for the Contemporary Church.
1. Generosity is not defined by how big or small you give to someone or help the person,
rather it is about:
Being sincere or truthful with the help
Putting the needs of others above yours
Making sure your fellow human is well.
2. The Lord knows and notices everything – how we help others be it money or material
things
3. Our acts of generosity might be overlooked by human beings but not God. He judges
rightly and deeply touched by everything done for his sake.
CONCLUSION.
Dearly beloved, generosity is God’s nature, was exhibited by Christ Jesus and we must also do
the same. It is a way of acknowledging that all that we have belongs to God.
Generosity brings many more blessings which many include peace, joy, good health, abundant
resources, etc.
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Beloved, go a be generous.
God Bless You……………………………… Amen.
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