A generous heart as a way of life

Being generous is something that should just flow from us. That we want to share the good things that God has given us. It's a form of stewardship that God desires from us, because everything we have is from Him anyway. 

I think the key to developing it in ourselves is to learn to be aware of those around us and constantly be on the look out for ways to bless others. Even if we don't have much.  For example:  If you go apple picking - give some of what you pick away to neighbors, to your pastor, to your friends.

If you go to visit someone or meet up with a friend always take something.  If you don't have much money, just offer some of something you have.  If you find a great deal on something when you are shopping - buy extra so  you have some to give.  If you bake a cake, make two and give one away.  If you make a batch of soap or can some fruit or vegetables - put aside some to give away. 

I really like what I've seen Pioneer Woman do at times.  If she buys herself a new handbag, she will host a giveaway for someone else to win the same bag too in whatever color they like.  If she gets more of her favorite cowboy boots, she will giveaway one or sometimes a few pairs to people who comment on her blog.  I really love this as it's recognising many others love what she loves but aren't in the same position as she is to buy it, so she is giving an opportunity to bless.  

Oh that we all had that mindset that we buy one for us and one for someone else to bless them.  When we have enough, that we share that enough with someone who doesn't have enough in this season.  We all go through seasons in life - some seasons are prosperous and some seasons are tough.  Understanding this and having an attitude of generosity and blessing others creates a flow in our lives, bringing more to us to give.  

Life is too short to hold onto things.  The blessing lies in giving.  So give freely and joyfully with no expectation from the receiver except that you want them to be happy and blessed.  This is what the Lord requires of us:  this is loving our neighbor as ourself.