In light of the growing economic downturn around the world, I thought it might helpful to share a few principles about living generously through such difficult times. I know that this may sound counter-intuitive, but stay with me

I think that most would agree that generosity towards those in need is a moral good. For those of us who come from a faith perspective, we understand that generosity is a part of what we’ve been called to, especially in light of the infinite generosity given to us through the person and work of Christ. Our generosity towards the world that God so loves supports the advancement of his ministry of care and reconciliation.

Here is what I see happening today…my two cents (pun intended):

I really believe that most who decide to give less of resources (e.g., time, money, etc.) during difficult seasons are NOT trying to move away from helping people. Simply put, times are just tough. In addition, many economists have been saying that the economic light will probably get dimmer in the months to come before it gets better.

The reality is that for most during such difficult times, the first place to cut is in area of generosity. There’s no doubt that this economic season has led to the decline of giving towards many in the non-profit world, which includes organizations like the Church. The era of abundance has already begun to morph into the era of scarcity.

[Disclaimer: I am in no way saying that our economic struggles come anywhere near what those outside of the US experience in places of extreme poverty. This is primarily contextualized for countries like the US. Also, even during difficult times, some organizations and businesses still continue to growth. These insights are meant to be general in nature.]

So, how can we still live a life of generosity in difficult times? Here are my thoughts?

• Plan for Generosity
  • It takes planning to be generous during these times. Most of us will probably no longer have the luxury of spontaneously giving resources away like we once used to. We must intentionally save in order than we can “spontaneously” give when given the opportunity.
  • Example: My wife and I have agreed to live on less per week in order that we can (1) save money and (2) be able to remain committed to the organizations and ministries we are connected to financially. We believe that proper planning of our resources will give us the freedom to be generous when opportunities arise. In addition, when special needs arise among those we come contact with, we have made choices to further cut our luxuries/excesses to meet needs. One practical example of this is that we have chosen to cut cable and look for more cost effective outlets for entertainment. It may not be a Shane Claiborne kind of life (yet), but nevertheless, it is a posture in the right direction.
  • Q: What can you cut to remain generous towards others?

• Diversify Generosity
  • Consider redefining generosity to include other things beyond finances. You’ve probably heard it said, “Time is money.” Well, for many organizations, they need people to volunteer and give input to development. It really does offset huge amounts of costs for them. Consider volunteering or providing services during these difficult times. I think volunteering in efforts to benefit humanity definitely provides prospective and keeps us rooted in the things that really matter at the end of the day.
  • Example: I make sure that I make time each week to benefit organizations and people I may not directly be networked with. I have no hesitancy in supporting and volunteering time with people and organizations who long to bring good to the world. In most cases, I’ve found that these times have led to my own renewed perspective and future partnerships towards greater work.
  • Q: What does your volunteering look like? Do you have any thoughts towards of common excuse of being too busy or under-resourced?

• Partner in Generosity
  • Become more proactive in sharing goods with others you are in relationship with. Instead of buying more stuff, consider looking into what your friends and family may already have that could be shared (and vice-versa).
  • Example, there are more families in our church now that consider creative ways to share resources. It may be the redistributing of unused furniture, sharing baby clothes, or even babysitting so that couples may have time to actually go out together. A church I visited recently even had a table for goods that people could exchange as needed.
  • On a larger scale, I think organizations and communities of faith need to work more collaboratively. It’s time to drop our personal brands and create new umbrella ones collectively that highlight the work more than the organizations. Networking is a much needed commodity in these difficult times.
  • Q: Who have you connected with outside of your immediate circle? What was the last thing you’ve done for a group outside of your own immediate endeavors?

There is no season of difficulty that can prevent those longing to serve humanity from living out their passions.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts!