by Mel Mcintyre

Created on: February 09, 2010   Last Updated: February 17, 2010

Is it better to give than to receive? The simple answer is “yes” – and here’s the reason why:

"A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor." -Proverbs 22:9

Generosity isn’t just a pair of trousers we put on when the mood takes us. It’s a way of life, a concept so ingrained within us that to deny it is to deny the very essence of what makes us who we are.

God showed us the true meaning of generosity: he gave us His son. There’s no way that we can possibly aspire to be as generous as that – but that shouldn’t stop us from trying.

The amazing thing about generosity is the way it makes you feel. Whether you give someone your time, some assistance, clothes, food, or money, the feeling’s the same. It truly is a blessing, and unlike any other feeling you’re likely to encounter.

Roots of Generosity
The word “generosity” comes from the Latin word generosus, meaning "of noble birth”. This makes sense when you consider that the ideals associated with nobility included gallantry, strength, courage, gentleness and fairness. And there’s no doubt that generosity requires strength of character, courage and fairness, a sense that we’re all equally as noble as each other.

Some people say that generosity is really just a response to guilt: that we’re only generous because it soothes our conscience. Others say that we give because we feel we have to, or because we fear what other people might think of us. But they’re missing the point.

It might be true. We might put money in the collection box because we know we’re being scrutinised. We might help an old lady across the street because people are watching. But that doesn’t matter.

We’re still being generous. We’re letting the spirit of God enter into our hearts. We’re spreading that spirit around among other human beings. And that’s got to be a good thing, don’t you think?

“There is one who scatters, and yet increases all the more, 
And there is one who withholds what is justly due, and yet it results only in want.” -  Proverbs 11:24

St. Paul’s Take on Generosity
In his letter to the Corinthians Paul explains how generosity is itself a gift, a present from God to help us live more graceful lives:

“And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe

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