The Power of Generosity–A Life Well Lived

Winston Churchill is often credited with saying, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

While there’s no official record of him saying these exact words, the message aligns deeply with his values of service, sacrifice, and contribution. It suggests that true fulfillment in life comes not just from what we earn or acquire, but from how we give back—how we impact the world around us.

If Churchill had said this, it would likely have been in the context of encouraging public service, charity, or national unity—perhaps during World War II, when he urged the British people to stand together, or later, when advocating for social responsibility and rebuilding after the war.

The idea that generosity shapes a meaningful life isn’t just an inspirational saying—it’s a powerful principle, one deeply rooted in biblical wisdom.

In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, the Apostle Paul writes:

"He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver."

Paul uses agricultural terms—sowing and reaping—to illustrate a fundamental truth: in order to reap a harvest, we must first plant a seed. This applies not only to agriculture, but to investing as well.

Whether we invest financially, emotionally, or spiritually, we face a choice:

Do we use our resources only for personal gain, or do we invest in something greater—something that benefits others and builds a legacy?

Paul encourages us to give intentionally, saying, “Let each one give as he has purposed in his heart.” This principle extends to how we invest. As stewards—God’s oikonomos or fiduciaries—we are entrusted with resources not just to serve ourselves, but to advance God’s kingdom on earth.

Jesus himself spoke directly about this in Matthew 6:19-21:

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Jesus calls us to shift our focus from temporary wealth to eternal values. What we accumulate on earth is fleeting, but what we give and invest for the good of others leaves a lasting impact.

Proverbs 11:25 reinforces this truth:

"A generous person will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed."

This reveals a profound cycle—when we pour into others, we, too, are enriched. Generosity isn’t a loss; it’s an investment in something greater than ourselves.

At the end of the day, making a living is necessary, but making a life—one filled with purpose, joy, and significance—comes from being generous both in charity and investing.

When we choose to invest in ways that bring restoration and flourishing, we cultivate not only financial returns but spiritual and emotional abundance. A life rooted in generosity doesn’t just change others—it transforms us.

How will you invest in the lives of others today?