Wisdom’s Generosity

Generosity has long been a mark of a genuine Christian, and rightfully so. Scripture has much to say about this particular virtue and it’s place in the life of the believer (Matt 6:19; 2 Cor 9:7; Acts 20:35; 1 Tim 6:10; Deut 15:7). Proverbs is no exception. The concluding pericope in Proverbs 3 makes a direct connection between generosity and the son who walks in wisdom; in fact, the two go hand-in-hand. The Sage of Proverbs 3 transitions from describing wisdom as a “tree of life” in v18, and the “keeping of sound wisdom” as the means of obtaining life in v21, to the concluding observation that such a life naturally pursues peace and generosity (27-35). The men and women who obtain wisdom should not only be known as God-fearing disciples of Jesus but individuals who are known for their generosity. In a society that is driven by materialism, gain and power, the idea of sharing our time and wealth is merely optional and ever only considered when it is convenient or it does not crowd one’s optimal lifestyle. Sadly this mentality has made its way into the church despite the plethora of scriptural texts that call believers to be cheerful givers. One way this can be observed is to consider the ways in which we save our funds and protect our time. The world saves out of fear, anxiety over the unknown, and the “what-ifs” of the future. But according to Scripture, we are called not to worry about what we shall eat or drink because of God’s faithfulness (Matt 6:25), but rather receive so that we may give (1 Tim 6:19). Why is this concept so difficult for contemporary Christianity to implement? Simply put, we hold our stuff and comforts too dearly. This is antithetical to what Proverbs demands. When gain is realized, wisdom says, “Give it away.” It is why Paul says in Romans 1:14 that he is a “debtor” both to the Greeks and to the barbarians. He was not a grasper or a demander but rather a gracious giver. Paul modeled himself after Christ who gave up everything for the sake of God’s glory and the salvation of our souls. He lived the life wisdom calls for in Prov 3:27—one who “does not withhold good.” It is not enough for us to say, “I have caused no harm” in order to prove our wise and godly lifestyle. That standard falls pitifully short for how believers are expected to live. As one author states, “We sin against each other not only by the bad things we do but also by the beautiful things we withhold.” Let us model Christ who withheld no good thing from you and I, “the least of these”. And may His generosity inform the way you monetarily give and spiritually invest in peoples lives.–Pastor Nate

Sunday at Liberty

9AM: Pastor Rory–Attitudes in Prayer: Thanksgiving

10AM: Pastor Rory–Wisdom’s Generosity–Proverbs 3:27-35 (sermon notes)

No PM Gathering