Generosity gives with fear, love and trust when it says, “I need more of you, God.” Proverbs 3

Notes And Next Steps

Proverbs 3:5-10 + Part 2 of the series “Living Generously"

Right now your life is shaped by a hunger for glory.

Do not be wise in your own eyes. (Proverbs 3:7)

“God, this day belongs to you. I belong to you. You don’t need me, but I need you, and I need more of you, God.”

Fear the Lord and shun evil. (Proverbs 3:7)

Fear means not just being afraid of what might happen if you’re on the wrong side of God, but being in awe of what does happen because you’re on the right side of God. 

Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops. (Proverbs 3:9)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight … This will bring health to your body and nourishment … your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. (Proverbs 3:5,6,8,10).

SPIRITUAL NEXT STEP

Begin praying and planning to give God a tithe (10%) of your income for 10 weeks beginning October 9. Or what is fitting as you seek to grow in faith and generosity. 

Discussion Questions

1. Begin praying and planning to give God a tithe (10%) of your income for 10 weeks beginning October 9. Or what is fitting as you seek to grow in faith and generosity. How did today’s message encourage you about this?
2. For families/groups: Retell the Living Generously episode. Go into your Living Generously gift pack and talk about the gavel. Frank was guilty. Of what? Read Matthew 6:24. How does Jesus seek to correct our thinking?
3. Read Deuteronomy 26:1,2,10. Before we give firstfruits, they are first what?
4. For practical encouragement about how to do give generously to God, the apostle Paul teaches us (1 Corinthians 16:2). What are some key considerations for firstfruits giving? Share your experience and ideas.