1. God is the first and most generous giver.

• When you think about God’s generosity, what comes to mind?
• Read James 1:17. What good and perfect gifts have you received from God?
• Which statement is more true for you? Why?
  • “I naturally think of all of my possessions as gifts from God.”
  • “I have to remind myself that my possessions are gifts from God.”
  • “I’ve never thought of my possessions as gifts from God.

2. God’s generosity changes everything.

• Share an example of unconditional generosity that you have heard about, witnessed, or received.
• Read Romans 5:6. Notice that God stepped in “when we were utterly helpless.” (NLT) God’s gift isn’t transactional—a give-and take between us and God. It’s transformational—He changes us!
• In your world, what does living a life transformed by God look like?

3. When we give, the world notices.

• Early church scholar Tertullian (AD 155-240) writes of the pagan observation of the Christians: “See how they love one another.” Where have you seen this kind of love in action in the Christian community?
• Read Acts 4:32-35. What caused such unity and generosity among the believers?
• What would the impact be if followers of Jesus at Woodbury Lutheran lived with similar generosity?

Wrap Up

Can one be a follower of Jesus and not live generously? Explain.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, teach me what it means to live as one who has been transformed by your love and sacrifice. Unleash Your power in me, in my relationships, in our communities, and in Your world. Amen.

Reflect

• Transformation requires letting go. Are you holding on too tightly to anything to experience God’s transforming power?
• What does your current stewardship, generosity, and giving reflect about your understanding of God’s transforming grace?
• What does it look like to be financially generous in a life transformed by God?

Act

• Pray that God will give you the opportunity to reflect His generous grace by blessing someone else.
• When He presents the opportunity, ACT!