Life Giving Giving starts with God Giving is at the heart of God’s character. “God gives what God is – his life. The gift is not a substitute for God. It is God, God in motion, God in action.” Rowan Williams Jesus giving his life for us is the ultimate demonstration of God’s generosity and grace “For God so loved the world that he gave…….” John 3:16a

God’s giving provokes our thanksgiving All that we have, and all that we are originate in God’s generosity. In what ways have you expressed your thanks for all that God has given you? ‘Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.’ Psalm 118:1

Giving throughout Life Life is a journey As with many aspects of discipleship, many Christians find that they are on journey when it comes to giving. “But just as you excel in everything - in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us – see that you also excel in this grace of giving’ 2 Cor 8:7

But it doesn’t just happen… We need to reflect regularly on what enables us to be generous, and what prevents us. Where are you on your journey of generous giving? ‘Becoming a Christian ….. is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ.’ Billy Graham

Giving Life When we give, we give life. Regular giving enables the life and mission of the Church Giving time and hospitality transmits love and compassion. Giving to church and to charities enables new life, new vision, new hope. “Let us more and more insist on raising funds of love, of kindness, of understanding, of peace.” Mother Theresa

Two yardsticks….. Do we give regularly? Do we give generously? ‘On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income,’ 1 Cor 16:2

Giving in all of Life We are challenged to be generous in every aspect of our lives. Not just about giving of money, but including the giving of money. Also hospitality, time, skills….. at home, at work, in church. Giving is the outworking of faith. “You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.” Amy Carmichael, Missionary to India

Where should I focus? In which area do you find it easiest to give? Which area do you need to work at? ‘We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.’ Winston Churchill

What can I do? Give thanks Give regularly Give generously Give yourself ‘Were the whole realm of nature mine, that were an offering far too small Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.’ Isaac Watts