In a culture so driven by the pursuit and acquisition of money, a book subtitled Finding Contentment Through Giving may seem mildly radical. Actually, Generous Living is completely revolutionary, at least from a secular viewpoint. The Bible's teachings concerning money turn conventional wisdom on its head, and Ron Blue does an excellent job distilling and conveying those scriptural truths in this practical, easy to read book.

Generous Living

by Mark Bowers

Living and Giving with Joy 

Divided into three parts, Ron first takes us through an examination of Living and Giving with Joy. In Ron's words: "Giving is more than just a way to use your money. It is a lifestyle, a way of living that allows you to hold all that you own -- including your time and talents -- with an open and generous hand." It isn't always easy. 

With the constant barrage of societal and media messages screaming, "Earn more money, buy more stuff!" it's sometimes difficult to hear the gentle words of Christ. "If you give to others, you will be given the full amount in return," he promises in Lk. 6:38 CEV. The Apostle Paul offers similar instruction to the Corinthians, "A lot of seeds make a big harvest. … God loves people who love to give" 2 Cor 9:6-7 (CEV). Generous Living offers thoughtful applications and demonstrations of these truths through stories, examples, and explanations. We discover that lifestyle generosity doesn't happen overnight. Rather, it's a gradual process that leads to ever increasing freedom, satisfaction, and contentment. 

The Process of Giving 

In part two, The Process of Giving, we learn that an understanding of God's Word is the beginning of a generous lifestyle. Scripture indicates that money can be used as a tool, a test, and a testimony in the lives of believers. Our knowledge of and faith in God will determine how wisely we use the resources that God had entrusted to us. 

Many of us think that by considering, "Can I afford this?" we're practicing good stewardship. Ron Blue says we're asking the wrong question. We should be asking, "Would God want me to use his money this way?" What we can afford to purchase is not the issue; it's what we ought to buy. 

Similarly, our giving shouldn't be determined by how much is left over after expenses. Instead, Ron shows how to determine three levels of giving: how much we should give (tithe), how much we could give (sacrificial), and how much we would give (faith). "How much you give," says Ron, "is not so much a reflection of your wealth as it is of your relationship with God." 

Practical Applications for a Generous Life 

Finally, part three offers some Practical Applications for a Generous Life. How many of us give money to a charitable cause and then wonder if the money is being responsibly used? Ron offers practical ways to evaluate giving opportunities. He also provides some valuable insights in teaching children about money, leaving an inheritance, and structuring a will. The last chapter examines the paradox between wealth and freedom, satisfaction, and security. 

Generous Living offers a fresh, liberating, biblical perspective on the roll of giving in the life of a believer. Early in the book, Ron states: "I want to move you from fear to freedom, from guilt to joy, and from frustration to confidence. I want to help you ungrasp your hand." He accomplishes his purpose without bruising our fingers. 

Ron Blue is the founder and managing partner of Ronald Blue & Co., a financial, investment, and estate-planning firm. A popular financial speaker and frequent guest on television and radio talk shows, he is the author of seven books, including the best-selling Master Your Money. Ron and his wife, Judy, live in Atlanta, Ga.

For christian financial resources on the web, visit  www.crown.org. They provide good financial training materials for individuals,couples, kids, and church finances. They also liaise with churches to provide financial management workshops; check on their website for such locations close to you.