The Art of Giving: Becoming a more generous person

The Art of Giving, by Matthew Porter, encourages readers to practice giving in an accessible and practical way, drawing from personal experience and biblical teaching. It helps readers become more generous in their giving of resources and time, understand tithing, learn how to become a joyful giver, and develop an attitude of faithful generosity that will bless others. The book is part of The Art of series about discipleship habits.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2024
Publisher: Authentic Media

Why is it good to give?

Giving is a fundamental aspect of human nature and has been practiced throughout history in various forms. Giving can take many different shapes, such as providing resources, time, or support to others. There are numerous benefits to giving, both for the giver and the recipient.

Firstly, giving can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose. When we give to others, we are actively making a positive impact in their lives and contributing to the betterment of the world. This can provide a sense of satisfaction and happiness that is difficult to find elsewhere.

Secondly, giving can strengthen relationships and build community. When we give to others, we are demonstrating our care and concern for them and creating a sense of connection and trust. This can lead to stronger relationships and a more supportive community.

Thirdly, giving can have a positive impact on mental and physical health. Studies have shown that giving to others can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while also improving overall well-being. Giving can also boost self-esteem and promote a sense of gratitude and appreciation.

Finally, giving can have a long-term impact on society and the environment. When we give to charity or support social causes, we are contributing to the betterment of society and the planet. This can lead to a more just and equitable society and a healthier environment for future generations.

In conclusion, giving is a good practice that can bring numerous benefits to both the giver and the recipient. Whether it is providing resources, time, or support, giving can help us feel fulfilled, strengthen relationships, improve mental and physical health, and have a positive impact on society and the environment. As followers of Jesus, giving is an essential aspect of our faith and can help us draw closer to God and serve others in a meaningful way.

How does it change me and impact the world?

Giving has a profound impact on both the giver and the recipient. When we give to others, we are not only providing them with resources or support, but we are also changing ourselves in the process. Giving can help us develop empathy, compassion, and a sense of gratitude for the things we have in our lives.

Firstly, giving can help us develop empathy and compassion. When we give to others, we are putting ourselves in their shoes and trying to understand their needs and experiences. This can help us develop a deeper sense of empathy and compassion for others, which can lead to more meaningful relationships and a more compassionate society.

Secondly, giving can help us develop a sense of gratitude for the things we have in our lives. When we give to others, we are recognizing the importance of our resources and the impact we can have on others. This can help us appreciate the things we have and be more mindful of how we use them.

Thirdly, giving can help us develop a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives. When we give to others, we are actively contributing to the betterment of the world and making a positive impact in the lives of others. This can provide us with a sense of purpose and meaning that is difficult to find elsewhere.

Finally, giving can help us develop a more generous and giving attitude. When we give to others, we are training ourselves to be more generous and giving in our daily lives. This can lead to a more generous and giving attitude that can benefit us and others.

In conclusion, giving has a profound impact on both the giver and the recipient. Whether it is providing resources, time, or support, giving can help us develop empathy, compassion, gratitude, purpose, and a more generous and giving attitude. As followers of Jesus, giving is an essential aspect of our faith and can help us draw closer to God and serve others in a meaningful way.

Why is giving so central to the life of the follower of Jesus?

Giving is a fundamental aspect of the life of a follower of Jesus. Jesus taught that giving is an expression of love and that we should give to others as we would want to be given to ourselves. In the Gospels, we see numerous examples of Jesus giving to others, such as healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and forgiving sinners.

Giving is so central to the life of a follower of Jesus because it is an expression of our faith and our love for God and others. When we give to others, we are demonstrating our trust in God and our willingness to serve others. We are also demonstrating our love for others and our desire to see them thrive and succeed.

Furthermore, giving is an essential part of discipleship. Jesus taught that we should follow him by imitating his example and that we should be willing to give up our own desires and needs for the sake of others. When we give to others, we are demonstrating our commitment to following Jesus and our willingness to serve others.

Finally, giving is an important part of our witness to the world. When we give to others, we are demonstrating our faith in Jesus and our love for him. We are also demonstrating our commitment to serving others and our desire to see the world transformed by the love of God.

In conclusion, giving is a fundamental aspect of the life of a follower of Jesus. It is an expression of our faith, love for God and others, and our commitment to following Jesus. As followers of Jesus, we should be willing to give to others as we would want to be given to ourselves and to serve others as we would want to be served.

Dimension: 178 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788932905