Monday 31 August 2015

Generosity Leads to Joy

Generosity Leads to Joy
 
CURRENT TEACHING SERIES
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
 
 
 
Generosity Leads to Joy
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By Rick Warren — Aug 30, 2015
 
Devotional
image from Rick Warren
 
 
“There is more happiness in giving than in receiving.” (Acts 20:35b TEV)
You make a living by what you get. You leave a legacy by what you give.
Jesus said in Acts 20:35, “There is more happiness in giving than in receiving” (TEV). I’ve always loved that verse because it’s so honest. Does Jesus say there’s no happiness in receiving? No. There is happiness in receiving. But Jesus says there’s more happiness in giving.
That’s the exact opposite of the way the world thinks. Most of the world thinks there’s more happiness in getting. But Jesus does not think like the world. He knows that you are most like him when you are giving, and that produces joy.
When people visit Saddleback Church, they notice that it’s a joyful church. Do you know why? Because it’s a generous church. People love to give! And when we’re generous, it results in joy. It feels good to give.
Do you want your family to be more joyful? Then be more generous as a family. Do you want to be a more joyful person? Then be more generous as a person.
PLAY today’s audio teaching from Pastor Rick>>
Talk It Over
  • When was a time you were happier to give something than receive it?
  • What are some other characteristics of a joyful person?
  • How can you be more generous as a family?
  • Today’s Scripture
    “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me...”
    (Psalm 23:4, ESV)
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    Keep Walking Through
    Everyone faces challenges and difficulties in life. If you are going through a valley today, know that you are not alone. God is with you! He is working behind the scenes on your behalf, and He will carry you through. Remember, your challenges didn’t come to stay; they came to pass. Don’t get stuck in the valley by allowing your setbacks to become the focus of your life. Jesus endured the pain of the cross for the joy that was set before Him, and when you focus on your victory, you will be able to keep walking through your valley, too!
    Shake off bitterness and self-pity today and be determined to press forward. With God on your side, no weapon formed against you shall prosper. As you keep an attitude of faith and expectancy, your challenges will become easier, and you will move forward and live the life of victory God has in store for you.
    A Prayer for Today
    “Father, thank You for Your faithfulness to me. Thank You for giving me strength during the difficult times. I trust that You are with me today, and I choose to focus on the victory You have in store in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

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