Wisdom

Generosity isn’t always about money - it’s about creating space for others to grow, flourish, and encounter hope. Whether through small acts of kindness or mentoring the next generation, your actions can inspire hope and bring lasting impact. Be a trendsetter and go first in modeling generosity wherever God has placed you.

What comes to mind when you think of generosity? Money? Time? Wisdom? How about reward?

The Bible speaks often of generosity. Proverbs 11:24–26 tells us, "One person gives freely, yet gains even more" and Luke 6:38 assures, "Give, and it will be given to you." 2 Corinthians 9:6 adds, "Whoever sows generously will also reap generously."

Throughout Scripture, generosity is linked to blessings far beyond the initial act of giving. Yet, genuine generosity isn’t motivated by the promise of reward. It’s a selfless act, with heavenly rewards following the giving, not driving it. As Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

When it comes to abundant generosity, it is always, always the giving that comes first. Jesus kickstarted the cycle of generosity with his own life, modeling what it truly looks like to put others before ourselves. He gave, so we give – and in giving, we are blessed.

More often than not, those blessings come as joy, peace, and hope – heart gifts that nurture our spiritual well-being.

This year, seven seasoned media professionals embraced generosity by participating in a volunteer mentorship programme. The initiative was designed to guide the next generation coming into the sector, providing a unique insight into a space where faith and media meet. These mentors gave me a remarkable gift: time, energy, and wisdom.

Some may have gone into it doing some mental maths, wondering where they might find time in their hectic schedules. But by the end, each mentor found themselves blessed by the partnership and by their mentee. In return, the young professionals gained not only practical career advice and support but renewed hope and purpose.

Generosity isn’t always about grand gestures. Even a newborn, who has learned nothing of the world and is fully reliant on others, brings a smile to those around them. Every person, regardless of their stage in life, has something to offer.

In the end, Biblical generosity, whether large or small, springs from a desire to see the Kingdom breakthrough and to help another person flourish, trusting that whatever you offer will take root and bear fruit where it falls.

Prayer:

Pray for a heart that reflects God’s generosity, giving freely and selflessly, without expecting anything in return. Ask God to show you how to use your time, energy, and gifts to create space for others to grow and flourish. Pray for opportunities to inspire hope through small acts of kindness, mentoring, or encouragement. Thank God for the blessings that come from giving and for the joy, peace, and hope that generosity brings to both the giver and the receiver.

Take a 40acts challenge today:

1. Follow up with someone who shared something important with you recently. Check in to see how they’re doing, or how you might help. Be present and listen actively.
2. Connect with an individual who would benefit from your time, even just to chat. Let the first three questions be about them.
3. Ask ten people who you consider to be wise to send you their best piece of advice. Share this on your socials with #40actswisdom.