On Sunday, we begin a series on worship and the actions that draw us closer to God. We’ll cover seven words of worship over seven weeks, starting with generosity, which is an act of worship in which you give freely to God in response to His lavish grace. If God has given you something, He wants you to use it for His glory. Generous people are remembered and rewarded by God.
Worship is much more than singing songs on Sunday morning. It’s an all-encompassing act of giving God the glory He deserves. Among the many ways we worship, generosity stands out as a key that unlocks a deeper connection with God. Generosity isn’t just about financial giving; it’s a way of life that reflects our gratitude for the abundant grace of God.
Worship Through Generosity
Revelation 4 and 5 display a heavenly picture of worship where God the Father and Jesus the Son are ascribed ultimate worth. Revelation 4:11 declares, “You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.” As Creator and Sustainer, God is worthy of our praise and offerings.
When we give generously, we reflect God’s character. He has given us everything—life, salvation, and countless blessings. Our response should be to give back freely, whether that means our time, talents, or resources. Romans 12:1 reminds us, “…give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.”
Why Generosity Matters
Generosity draws us closer to God. It shifts our focus from ourselves to His kingdom and reminds us of His provision. When we give with open hands, we declare our trust in God’s ability to meet every need. Luke 6:38 offers a vivid image of God’s generosity: “Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap.”
But generosity is not about manipulating God for blessings. Instead, it’s about aligning our hearts with His will. Stinginess and selfishness can make God feel distant because they place our desires above His will. By contrast, generosity reorients us to His presence, drawing us nearer to the One who has given us everything.
Generosity takes many forms:
- Time: Serving God and others through acts of love.
- Tithes and Offerings: Equipping the church for mission.
- Hospitality: Welcoming others as God has welcomed us.
- Service: Using our abilities to reflect His kindness.
- Gifts: Sharing resources to meet community needs.
When we practice generosity in these ways, we experience God’s nearness. Our hearts overflow with joy as we witness the impact of our giving. We see how God uses our acts of worship to bless others and expand His kingdom.
The Greatest Reward
The ultimate blessing of generosity is not what we get from God but getting God Himself. When we give generously, we step into His presence and experience the weight of His glory. Generosity opens the door for a deeper relationship with our Creator and Savior.
As we embark on this journey through the “Seven Words of Worship,” let us start by cultivating generosity. May we worship with open hands and hearts, giving freely to the One who has given us all things.