At Harvest Point®, we believe true generosity begins not in the wallet but in the heart. God invites us to give in ways that reflect our trust in Him—not just when it’s easy, but when it requires faith. Often times, the purest generosity comes not from abundance, but from offering what feels like sacrifice, knowing He will provide all we could ever need.
True generosity goes far beyond finances—it’s about how we use the time, talents, influence, and resources God has entrusted to us to bless others and build His Kingdom.
Here are five different ways that you could give beyond your paycheck. Pray about it and see which generosity opportunities the Lord invites you into. After all, it’s impossible to outgive God!
1. Give Your Time
“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” — Philippians 2:4
One of the greatest gifts you can offer is your presence. A listening ear, a steady hand, or an hour spent encouraging someone can be life-changing. Time can’t be earned back, which is why giving it away is so powerful.
- Volunteer at your church or a local nonprofit.
- Mentor a young professional or student.
- Spend intentional time with someone who needs encouragement.
Jesus modeled generosity with His time. He stopped for people in need—even in the middle of His own busy ministry. We understand the wisdom of having a financial budget, but have you ever considered budgeting time on your calendar for giving back?
2. Share Your Talents and Skills
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” — 1 Peter 4:10
God has given each of us unique abilities and passions—not to be hidden, but to be used for His glory and the good of others. Your skills can meet real needs in ways money can’t.
- Offer pro bono services to a ministry or nonprofit.
- Help a neighbor or friend with a project they can’t tackle alone.
- Use your expertise to train or equip others.
3. Use Your Influence
“Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.” — 1 Timothy 6:18
Generosity isn’t always about giving things—sometimes it’s about opening doors. Your network, platform, or reputation can become a bridge for someone else’s opportunity.
- Make an introduction that could lead to a new path.
- Speak up on behalf of someone who doesn’t have a voice.
- Advocate for a need you believe in.
4. Practice Everyday Kindness
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” — Hebrews 10:24
Generosity doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. Simple acts of kindness often make the deepest impact. I’ve even heard this act of stewardship phrased as the ripple effect where even one small decision can have a much larger impact.
- Write a handwritten note.
- Pay for someone’s coffee.
- Offer a word of encouragement at just the right time.
Kindness often costs us little—but can mean everything to someone else.
5. Live With Open Hands
“Freely you have received; freely give.” — Matthew 10:8
When generosity becomes a way of life rather than a line item in your budget, everything changes. You begin to see opportunities to give everywhere—not just when your income allows. Living with open hands reminds us that what we’ve been given is meant to be shared.
A generous life is rooted in trust. When your hands are open, God can not only use what’s in them to bless others—but He can also continue to bless you.
A Final Thought
Your capacity to be generous isn’t limited by your income. It’s expanded by your willingness to live with a heart that mirrors Christ’s. When you offer your time, talents, influence, and kindness, you plant seeds of blessing that can grow far beyond what you’ll ever see.
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” — 2 Corinthians 9:8
And here’s the best part: generosity doesn’t just make an earthly impact—it builds eternal treasure. Every act of giving is an investment in something that lasts forever.
“But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” — Matthew 6:20
Read more about eternal treasure in our blog from last month linked here!
At Harvest Point®, we love helping families build a legacy of generosity—one that lasts far beyond their lifetime. Ready to explore how generosity fits into your financial plan? Schedule a conversation with one of our advisors and let’s see what God can do through a life lived with open hands.