10 Examples of Generosity That Don’t Require Opening Your Wallet

What comes to mind when you think of showing generosity? You may think of charitable contributions, helping the poor, or financial giving to your church missions or benevolence ministries. Like me, you likely think of sharing your hard-earned income. Recently, I felt the Lord prompt me to take a few steps back as I considered the idea of philanthropy—back to the reason why we show generosity in the first place. I started to consider different examples of generosity.

As followers of Christ, we’re to respond generously to the needs around us because that is what Jesus modeled for us. It is one way that we can reflect His glory to a watching world. By giving to others, we show God’s love and kindness.

I don’t recall ever reading about Jesus sharing money in an offering plate, yet we see that throughout His ministry, He demonstrated the extravagance of His giving nature. A few of His notable examples follow:

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Notable Examples of Generosity from Jesus:

Jesus gave of Himself in many ways. We see that he extended

• His compassion,

• His grace and mercy,

• His healing touch,

• His salvation,

• His joy,

• His instruction and wisdom,

• His time,

and through His most sacrificial gift, Jesus willingly laid down His life.

The Bible offers much encouragement toward generosity (click here to see a long list of Bible verses on the topic).

I also recently read a wonderful post by Melissa Tumino that expounds on some of the spiritual results of generosity based on Proverbs 11:25. I love Melissa’s reminder that true generosity comes from a pure heart. It should never stem from an attempt to make amends or to receive personal gain or attention. Generosity is giving without the expectation of receiving anything in return.There’s no question that we should show generosity, and there is ample Scriptural encouragement to do so. Sometimes the question, however, is how. How can we show generosity to others when we aren’t flush with cash or when we need other creative options?

10 examples of generosity that don’t require opening your wallet:  

Give generously to others through your

1. Time

1. Encouragement and support

1. Thanks / Gratitude

1. Mercy and grace

1. Patience

1. Prayer

1. Good deeds

1. Smile and positive attitude

1. Love and kindness

1. Community service

Should you also give financially? By all means, yes! In addition to monetary gifts, not instead of them, seek ways to tangibly serve and give to others in open-handed ways.