Three pointers are a big part of basketball, but that was not always the case. The three point line was first tested during a college game in 1945, but it only lasted for one game. A few minor professional leagues tried it out before the NBA eventually adopted it in 1979. The NCAA finally embraced it in 1986. At first the three point line was seen as a gimmick, but coaches slowly started to see its value. Over time, the value of shooting three pointers became clear, and now it is a crucial part of game strategy.
Generosity has always been a part of God’s plan for His people, and our generosity has three points of impact. It is clear that our generosity is a blessing to those who receive it, but God also blesses us when we are generous. Above all, it is an act of faith and obedience that gives glory to God. After the Corinthian church promised to send money to Jerusalem, Paul encouraged them in 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 with an explanation of why it is to their benefit to follow through.
6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 9 As it is written, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” 10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. 12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. 13 By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, 14 while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. 15 Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift! – 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
- Generous living is sowing
We have to choose how much we are going to give of our resources. If we give very little time, money, or attention to God, we should expect to see Him do very little in our lives. But when we are generous, God uses the seeds we sow to create a more abundant harvest.
- Generous living is rewarded
It is very easy to hold on to everything we have and work to save up wealth for ourselves. But the Bible is clear that God when we are generous, God continuously provides for us. When we faithfully bless others, He faithfully blesses us.
- Generous living is systemic
Generosity is more than a transaction. It is an expression of God’s love that reflects His character to the world. Being generous is a blessing to the giver, the receiver, and all who witness it, because it brings glory to our generous God.
- Generous living is reciprocal
We are called to be generous because God was first generous to us. We respond to Christ’s sacrifice with a willingness to make sacrifices of our own. God provides for us so that we can share those blessings with others.
God expects His people to be generous. When we obey, our generosity impacts others, enriches our own lives, and brings glory to God.
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