June 11: Insight Post by Julie Christensen

  -   July 11, 2025

Generosity as a Reflection of God’s Love: Giving freely reflects God’s heart for the world.

Friday Verse

And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ Acts 20:35 (NLT)

Friday Questions

How can I reflect God’s love through generosity this week by giving freely and selflessly? What opportunities do I have to help others, knowing that it is more blessed to give than to receive?

Friday Insight Post
by Julie Christensen

References to giving seem to immediately conjure the visual image of dropping coins and dollars into an offering plate. Has an image of freshly made deli sandwiches, delivered to the new neighbor who is busy unpacking boxes, ever replaced that offering plate image? What about sharing a story of ways you’ve seen God work in your life over a cup of coffee with a peer? Are these images and examples of giving, or is giving only monetary in your mind? As reminded this week, we see the widow give just two coins, yet it was worth so much more. I’m not referring to the metal or monetary value, but to the heart with which she gave. As we give, let’s assess the heart in which we give. Are we delivering sandwiches only to count how many kids just moved in? Are we noticing how many boxes are still unpacked? Are we silently judging the state of their recycle bin? We are human and our hearts will falter, yet our hearts should be giving for the right reasons. Giving is not simply tithing consistently. Giving can be of any God-given talents. Consider giving of your time. What about your wisdom? What about a specialized skill? We have so many ways to give. I’m praying this week that God will not only reveal to me different ways to give, but I’ll be still and quiet long enough to hear Him clearly speak to me regarding different ways to give to others.  What is God calling you to give this week? Your time, your story, your presence? Let’s listen and let’s give from the heart.

Julie Christensen
Senior Director of Silo Center

New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
www.newhope.org