Generosity
GOD’S WORD
Ruth 2; Proverbs 11:25; II Corinthian 9:11-12; Hebrew 10:14
The 5 Love Languages® is a concept developed by author Gary Chapman in 1992 that has since been developed into multiple books as well as curriculum distributed worldwide. The theory is based upon the idea in which each person gives and receives love in one of five languages: words of encouragement, gifts, touch, quality time, and acts of service. When each person in the relationship understands the love language of the other, they will be able to show love in the way each receives it best.
My husband and I were introduced to this concept many years ago in our premarital counseling sessions and it has been pivotal throughout our relationship. We have taken this to heart to ensure each of us feels appreciated through the other’s preferred style. As the series has expanded, one can now apply this to their children and ministry. We have even seen the benefits of these languages of appreciation used in the workplace. It has allowed employees to get to know one another even more, building trust and morale among the team.
One of the love languages that I resonate with most is acts of service. This could be as simple as opening the door for your loved one, or in my case, doing the laundry (thanks, honey!). This love language doesn’t cost money, but possibly a little bit of time and sweat equity. To me, more than an extravagantly, expensive gift, these simple acts tell that I am on the receiving end of someone who loves me. In chapter two of Ruth, we are introduced to a man who epitomizes this love language. His name was Boaz.
We are told that Boaz is a man of standing in the clan of Naomi’s husband Elimelek. He owned fields that were ready for harvesting. Ruth offered to glean the fields and Naomi blessed the proposition. The process of gleaning allowed those in need to work for their food. Israel had laws that prohibited harvesting from the corners of the fields so that the deprived could gather what they needed. It also prevented hoarding. Being a widow herself, Ruth was allowed to glean, and she did so without complaint.
Ruth’s faithfulness to her work was noticed by Boaz and his crew almost immediately. She had already earned respect for coming back with Naomi although she was not from Israel. As they observed how dedicated she was in the fields, they appreciated her even more. Boaz honored this loyalty by offering his protection. Boaz asked her not to go to any other field, but to stay. He asked his farmers not to reprimand her, but to allow her to gather even among the sheaves, leaving some stalks for her to pick them up. At mealtimes, Boaz offered food prepared for his own use and water to drink anytime she needed it. Boaz’s extreme generosity in allowing Ruth to glean earlier than normal, protected her from harm, and ensured that Ruth didn’t have to carry water. Boaz gave Ruth much more than the law of gleaning required of him.
Boaz’s example of generosity has struck me to the core. As I reflect on my own life, I wonder if I have become tightfisted in my own giving. Would I be willing to give the shirt off my back if my sister or brother was in need? I would like to think so, but I acknowledge there have been times in stress, where I withheld my time and service; selfishly keeping it for myself. Perhaps Solomon remembered the kindness of his great, great grandfather when he penned the words “a generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). Doing more than the minimum for others regardless of mood or situation is a marker of the Christian life. Paul shares this sentiment when he encourages generosity in 2 Corinthians chapter 9. “You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God” (verse 11-12). Did you hear that? Our giving is an act of thanksgiving to God. If I am reluctant to share in the blessings I have, then I am withholding praise to Him!
Regardless of what love languages we relate to most, perhaps giving should be a part of our life. Boaz, Solomon, and Paul saw the wisdom in generosity, affirming the importance in the spiritual health of the believer. Let’s also not forget the sacrifice that Jesus Himself bestowed upon us. “For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy” (Hebrews 10:14). The ultimate Gift Giver, Jesus, gave His life for our forever perfection. Thanks be to God.
OUR CORPORATE PRAYER
Father, as we come before Your throne, empty ourselves that you might fill us to over flowing. Your generosity goes deeper than we can fathom. You, and You alone have lavished us, Your children with blessings far too numerous to even count. We wish on this day that we conduct ourselves in such a manner that pleases You and worthy of the generosity that you have given to us.
Thank you, Father. In Your Son’s name, amen.