Generosity
Generosity has many forms, but the Bible speaks clearly to generosity with our finances. To grow in generosity, we must first understand how generous God has been to us. Therefore, as Christ-followers we are truly called to generosity as we grow as disciples. At The Bridge Fellowship, we desire everyone to be fully engaged with what God is doing, so similarly our goal for Beyond is 100% participation.
Every gift matters regardless of the amount, because God desires that our hearts are generous no matter what our capacity is. Giving and generosity is not a means to buy or earn a relationship with God. He wants our hearts to be aligned with His heart. There steps are simply a way to help understand how to personally grow in generosity.
Steps in the Generosity Journey
First-Time Giver – I am giving for the first time.
- If you have never given before, this is your first step in your generosity journey. This
step is also pivotal in your spiritual journey.
Occasional Giver – I give off and on, or only for a special emphasis.
- If you have given to the church in the past, give on an irregular basis, or only give for
specific needs.
Consistent Giver – I regularly give on a schedule.
- If you regularly give, you have committed to the discipline of giving which is a great
marker of your discipleship journey as a Christ-follower.
Tithing Giver – I intentionally give 10% of my income.
- If you tithe, you have committed not just to regular giving, but faithfully setting aside
10% while modeling a heart of generosity (Malachi 3:10). This is a very real picture of
obedience in your discipleship journey.
Sacrificial Giver – I consistently give more than 10% of my income.
- If you regularly and intentionally give more than 10% of your income, there is an
aspect of your lifestyle that feels the impact of your giving. You have structured your
giving so that it dictates how you spend and save instead of the other way around.
Surrendered Giver – I give to make a Kingdom impact that outlasts my life.
- Someone who truly has the gift of generosity and structures his/her life to maximize the ability to give generously to make a rapid and lasting Kingdom impact that lives beyond the giver.