Message Series // How To Be Rich (Part 2 – The Generosity Habit)
Message Date // October 31, 2021 (Scotty Priest)
Big Idea
As we travel through this series called “How to be Rich”, it is easy for us to think the teaching is focused on making money and becoming more prosperous financially. However, if we are to be honest, we are already rich. We are blessed and have more than enough. The problem isn’t in what we have or the fact that we want more, but the tension lies in reality that we want more of the wrong things. We find ourselves bowing before the pursuit of materialism only to realize that the most important things in life aren’t things. The beautiful truth is that Jesus helps us redirect our understanding of what it means to be “rich”, and he teaches us to pursue a life that is rich in the right things. Rich in contentment, relationships, rest, generosity, and more! The key is that we have to trust Jesus and begin to realign our lives around the “rich” life to which he invites us.
“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” – 1 Timothy 6:17
Discussion
How would personally define “generosity”? Name someone in your life who embodies your definition of generosity.
Read 1 Timothy 6:6-12 (also Luke 12:34 & Matthew 6:24). No matter what, it’s a struggle to be a follower of Jesus and not bring our money under his leadership. Why? Because it’s impossible to be financially bound and spiritually free. How have you seen this be true? Where have you seen this play out in your life or the life of someone you know? When the Apostle Paul mentions that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10), what do you think he means?
Read 1 Timothy 6:17-19. When it comes to God’s relationship with you, it’s never about what he wants FROM you…it’s about what he wants FOR you. And God’s direction in how you handle money always begins with GIVING. It seems so counter-intuitive, but why does living a “rich” life with our money and resources begin with giving (even if you are financially-strapped)?
At its core, giving is an act of worship and a spiritual discipline. Why? Giving to God’s work in this world can UNSETTLE, STRETCH, DISCIPLINE, and REMIND us about God’s provision and goodness in ways that other practices can’t. How have you experienced these things in your attempts to give financially? In what ways have you encountered God’s blessing because of your generosity?
Next Steps
Putting giving into practice isn’t easy, but incorporating what we call the “Generosity Habit” in your life can be a game- changer. The Bible references to this as the “tithe”, which is giving at least 10% of what you receive. But, in the end, it’s always about starting somewhere. It’s personal, private, predetermined, and a percentage to which you commit. Is there a next step you sense God is laying on your heart when it comes to a “Generosity Habit? How can your small group help you develop this habit?