Merriam-Webster defines generous as “liberal in giving: openhanded.” I’m reminded of verses about a harvest, reaping, and sowing. Profound wisdom that reminds us that if we sow seeds of kindness and love, we will reap a harvest of the same. What we give out truly, for the most part, comes back to us. In my current Bible study, “The Gospel on the Ground” by Kristi McLelland, we are learning how to be a light amid darkness and love when it is hard to extend love.

Let Them

There is a popular book called “Let Them” by Mel Robbins. It speaks to many folks tired of the emotional roller coaster ride of feeling like it is never enough and worried about how others behave or treat us, as if we can control this in some way. However, Mel Robbins shares two words, “Let them,” to remind us that we can only control our emotional responses and behaviors. What I love about this book is the support with the tug of war in my mind when I have worries about my actions towards others, and the spirit of offense. Walking around, wondering if I have offended, or feelings of offense from others, because of the stories I’m making up in my mind, is exhausting. Life is so much more than this.

God’s Response

God has much to say about the phrase “Let them.” His Word continually reminds us: “Do not judge” (Matthew 7:1), “I am your defender and advocate” (Psalm 54:4), “Do not worry about tomorrow” (Matthew 6:34), and “Do not seek the approval of others” (Galatians 1:10). Throughout Scripture, we are taught to cast our burdens on Him (1 Peter 5:7), trust in His guidance (Proverbs 3:5-6), and to stop trying to control everything and everyone around us.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

― Maya Angelou

How does someone make you feel? Stop and think about this. How much power do you give to “how someone makes you feel?” How do we remember that it matters and show up with love and kindness, yet not take on the cloak of bitterness or shame when words are spoken, or actions are contrary to kindness?

Showing Up with Intention

I’ve noticed that if we show up with a desire to listen more, ask questions that spark interest in others, and pause, we are more openhanded. When you approach a conversation, do you lead with a generous spirit? Because we tend to want to correct, criticize, lean towards deficit thinking, and somehow in all things “we know best”, I’m amazed at how much we really do need to practice the pause. If we weighed our words to understand if it is kind and useful in this moment, our words would be fewer.

Feelings of Overwhelm: Remember Generosity

I recently had a family reunion at Bear Creek State Park. On the way to setting up the shelter for the day with tablecloths and decorations, toys and games, and food preparation, I shared my Bible study with Parish. He was feeling overwhelmed with the countdown and the car loaded with items. We had spent the afternoon before preparing the food to cut down on the time needed in the morning. Reflecting on a generous spirit was like a breath of fresh air. How do you show up with open hands and heart and let the day unfold with a “Let them” spirit and, most importantly, kindness? It can be hard when we are exhausted, overwhelmed, and the “e” word comes creeping in. You know the “e” word – EXPECTATIONS. Spend a day with open hands to what comes your way without expectations of ____________________. That blank is personal to each of us. That includes all the yeses and nos you may have to put out there in the world. This is a reminder to not have unrealistic expectations for yourself.

The Kindness and Generosity of Others in My Life

Reflecting on the past month, I’m overwhelmed with how my friends and family have poured into my life. Today is a monumental birthday, or milestone, for me. I’ve had cards, text, videos, a birthday breakfast, a birthday party at The Bay, a weekend getaway with girlfriends, gifts, a bowling party, dinners out, and constant reassurance that the next 20 years, maybe 30 if I have my mom’s genes, will be okay. All that love does something to you. Words can’t describe how this day is brighter and full of hope because of the open hands of those who love me. And, I still have outings spread out into November! I’m rich with love through friends and family. It is golden! Thank you.

God’s Spontaneous Spirit

I’m always amazed at how God connects stories and happenings in my life when I’m intentionally involved with studying His Word and asking Him to show up. After ministering to my husband on the way to the shelter, a lady paused to ask about our reunion. She then asked, “How can I pray for you?” We talked about things on our hearts in general, and then we prayed. We can orchestrate events, yet it’s the spontaneous events in the course of the day that God uses to pack a glorious punch. It’s the exclamation point in His expressions! So many expressions have lifted me this month as folks spoke directly into my life with affirmation and hope.

Oh, my study is right on time for this year’s reflections. Kristi asks, “How can we live like we cannot lose?” The early church was an example of giving it all, being generous, and watching God spontaneously show up.

I’ll leave us with her thought-provoking questions:

What are you for? Do you spend more time talking and acting out what you are for, or more time spent on what you are against?

What do you have a passion for? How are you living this passion out, and what are your obstacles?

Can you take notice this week on how God shows up spontaneously and speaks into your life, and how He might use you?