The Gift of Generosity

Some time ago, a major university studied the effect of lifestyle on a person’s contentment or dissatisfaction levels. It was discovered that people who are generous usually have a contented, joyful, enriched life. At the physiological level, when a person is generous with time, talent and resources, a chemical is released in the body that acts like endorphins. This chemical produces a positive feeling of well being, and brings a purposeful meaning to life.

On the other hand, people who are by nature selfish generally do not have contented lives. They are always looking for something more, or are disappointed that the momentary high of an experience fades so quickly. At the physiological level, when people are selfish, a chemical is released in the body that acts like a toxin, producing negative and depressed feelings.

This is not really new information. Thousands of years ago the wisdom literature put it this way, “A generous man will prosper, he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25 This is a timeless axiom. Pragmatically, generosity is the ultimate win/win proposition. People who give feel good about themselves and are blessed, and people who receive the gift feel good and are blessed. What an investment that has double returns!

Everyday observations of life also confirm this. When people are misers, they tend to be miserable–note that miser and miserable come from the same root word. How many families have members who seem to turn into barracudas when someone dies and the family has to settle the will? Whenever we act in a miserly fashion, it destroys others and ourselves.

We feel encouraged and positive when we give to others. It is good for us and good for those around us. During the Christmas season, there is a major focus on giving. It changes relationships. Wouldn’t it be good to experience this Christmas spirit twelve months of the year?

Jim Elliot put it this way, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” Becoming a generous person is the smartest way to increase the quality of life now! I encourage you to practice “the gift of generosity!” It will change you and those around you as well.

Go with God,

Pastor Qualley