How can we emulate the generosity shown in Ezra 2:68 in our lives? setting the scene in Ezra 2:68 “When they came to the house of the LORD in Jerusalem, some of the heads of the families gave freewill offerings toward the house of God to rebuild it on its site.” what their generosity looked like • Free-will, not coerced • Immediate—“when they came” • Purpose-driven—earmarked for God’s house • Family-led—heads set the pace for households • Material and substantial—enough to restart temple ministry (Ezra 2:69) timeless principles of biblical generosity • God-first giving—Proverbs 3:9-10 • Voluntary and cheerful—2 Corinthians 9:7 • Proportionate to ability—Ezra 2:69; 1 Corinthians 16:2 • Faith-filled, expecting God to supply—Philippians 4:19 • Kingdom-focused, not self-focused—Matthew 6:19-21 practical ways to emulate their example today 1. Prioritize the local church’s mission – Budget your first dollars for gospel ministry and benevolence. 2. Lead by example at home – Share giving goals with family; invite children to add their own gifts. 3. Give promptly when God stirs your heart – Don’t delay when a need is presented (James 2:15-16). 4. Support the rebuilding of broken lives – Direct offerings toward outreach, church plants, disaster relief, and missions. 5. Offer time and skills alongside finances – Serve on workdays, teach, mentor—Romans 12:6-8. 6. Plan generosity into your lifestyle – Automate regular giving; keep a “ready fund” for spontaneous needs. heart attitudes that fuel generosity • Gratitude for redemption—Psalm 116:12-14 • Fear of the Lord—Proverbs 14:27 • Trust in God’s provision—Malachi 3:10 • Joy in blessing others—Acts 20:35 promises tied to open-handed living • “Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38) • “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8) one step for this week Identify one ministry or individual God puts on your heart. Set aside a free-will gift—whether money, time, or talent—and deliver it promptly, imitating the returning exiles who gave as soon as they arrived at “the house of the LORD.” |
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