We will lead the way in Irrational Generosity
What is Irrational Generosity?
Suprarational=based in rational thought and then going above it. Not understood by
reason alone.
Giving to others beyond what makes sense to you or others. Not just a single action, but
a lifestyle.
Luke 21:1-4
1 As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury.
2 He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins.
3 “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others.
4 All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty
put in all she had to live on.”
Scrooge McDuck Irrational Generosity v Cheapskate
Can we think of those on a continuum? We fall somewhere between the two points. You
might lean towards scrooge or you might lean towards generous.
Maybe when you were younger you were more of a cheapskate than you are now.
Types of Generosity
Financial—all our money comes from God, so we honor Him with some from every
income source
Material Possessions—We have lots of stuff! If you have stuff, maybe God will direct
you to give some away. Can be as simple as bringing in food for the Blessing Box, or
donating clothes to Mustard Seed, or shoes to WaterStep
Time—Giving someone your time is being generous. Helping people, listening to
people, volunteering your time can be irrational—make no sense to other people.
Thoughts—thinking the best of someone before you have all the facts
Words—bringing life to others with your words
Influence—maybe helping someone get a job or introduce them to someone who can
move them forwards
Attention—Paying attention, noticing someone in distress, showing kindness
We are called to be people who flow with generosity
“Be a fountain, not a drain”— I want to splash others with irrational generosity,
bringing glory to Jesus. Who can I splash on today Lord?
Paul’s Example as he was leaving his 3 years in Ephesus
Acts 20:35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we
must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is
more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”
Jesus said “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
God sees all your giving. All you pour out into others. Just as Jesus saw the widow give
her pennies, he sees your offering of love to Him to love others. You will be rewarded by
God. Know what is irrational? Not telling someone about your generosity! I want my
name on the building!! I want that pat on the back. Unfortunately, Jesus said to not be
like the pharisees who flaunt their good deeds in front of everyone.
Proverbs 11:24-25 One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another
withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper:
whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
God’s economy is upside down!
We Grow in Grace to Give
1. Ask God to show you ways to be generous.
2. Keep Your Eyes Open and Listen
3. Think Small
4. Think Big.
At Vineyard we lead the way with irrational generosity.
It’s a suprarational lifestyle of generosity.
I’m going to pray we all Grow in Grace to Give!
