Built to Last – Week 7 – Joy in the Generosity Journey
ICEBREAKER: “The Chocolate Chip Cookie Test”
If you were stranded on a deserted island and already had food, water, shelter, and an iPhone — what would you value the most? Follow-up: What’s one time someone’s generosity surprised or blessed you unexpectedly?
BIG IDEA:
“Life is so much about generosity — because what you keep is all you’ll ever have, but what you give, God can multiply.”
Generosity isn’t just about money. It’s a mindset and a journey of joy. Each of us is moving somewhere on the generosity journey — from “It’s all mine,” to “The first belongs to God,” to “I’m a living sacrifice.”
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. Three Mindsets of Generosity
Read Luke 12:15 and Proverbs 3:9–10.
1. What are the three mindsets described in Scripture and the message?
◦ It’s all from me and for me.
◦ The first belongs to God.
◦ I’m a living sacrifice.
2. Which mindset do you most identify with right now — and what might help you take the next step?
3. How does the principle of “firstfruits” (honoring God with your first and best) change your view of generosity?
2. The Decision to Give
Read 2 Corinthians 9:7.
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
1. What stands out to you about the word decided?
2. Why do you think God cares about the attitude behind our giving?
3. How can giving become an act of joy rather than obligation?
4. What’s the difference between giving to get something in return versus giving from your heart?
3. God’s Promise to Provide
Read 2 Corinthians 9:8–10.
1. What does this passage teach us about God’s ability to provide?
2. How does “God supplying seed to the sower” connect to the idea that money is a seed, not just a tool?
3. Where do you see God calling you to trust Him more deeply with your finances, time, or talents?
4. In what ways have you experienced God’s multiplication when you chose to give?
4. The Joy of Generosity
Luke 6:38 says,
“Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over…”
1. What does this verse reveal about God’s heart toward givers?
2. How have you seen joy increase in your life or someone else’s through generosity?
3. Why do you think God “loves a cheerful giver”?
4. What’s one way you could bring joy to someone through generosity this week?
CLOSING PRAYER:
“God, thank You that You are generous and that You invite us to be like You. Help us move from holding tightly to what’s ours, to freely giving what’s Yours. Teach us to trust You with our first and best. Fill our hearts with joy as we give, knowing You can do more with what we sow than with what we keep. Make us cheerful givers who reflect Your heart to the world. Amen.”