Podcasts about Generosity

This week, I'm chatting with Jenn Klein—author, podcast host, and philanthropic advisor—for a thoughtful conversation about generosity, giving, and what it really means to be a philanthropist. Many of us think philanthropy is something reserved for the ultra-wealthy, but Jenn challenges that belief. She shares how generosity is not defined by the size of a donation, but by the ways we choose to align our time, energy, resources, and values with the causes and communities we care about most. We explore how our personal values shape our giving, the mindset shifts that can make generosity feel more accessible, and why philanthropy can be an everyday practice rather than a financial milestone. Whether you're looking for ways to make a greater impact in your community or simply want to rethink your relationship with giving, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired and empowered. Connect with Jenn: https://youareaphilanthropist.com/ https://www.instagram.com/_jennklein   Get her book: https://www.amazon.com/Giving-Selfish-Change-World-Yourself/dp/B0CLK2STJT ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you loved this episode, please take a moment to follow, rate, or review Money Isn't Scary — it helps more women find these much-needed conversations. You can also find me here:

A sermon preached by Rev. Ginger E. Gaines-Cirelli with Foundry UMC, June 7, 2026, Second Sunday after Pentecost. “We Know Who We Are”series. Texts: Romans 12:1-2, 9-13; Acts 2:41-47   Last week we reflected on grace. We remembered that God's grace comes before we ever think about God, before we ever do anything right, before we ever earn anything. Grace comes first. Grace comes last. Grace is always the ground beneath our feet. This week the question is: If grace comes first, how does grace actually change us?   I grew up before car seats were common. Heck—I regularly rode in the back of my dad's or grandpa's pickup truck to get ice cream or drive out to the lake. Looking back, it feels like I was raised in the Wild West!?  As a teenager, I'd been driving a year or so when a new law was passed that required seatbelts. We started hearing about studies showing how seatbelts saved lives. There were those crash-test dummy commercials—remember those? But putting on a seatbelt wasn't something I thought about.  And so every time I got into the car, I had to remind myself: Put on your seatbelt. Sometimes I'd forget. Sometimes I'd remember halfway down the road. But I kept doing it. And then one day I noticed something. I was driving somewhere and realized I already had my seatbelt on. I hadn't thought about it. I hadn't reminded myself. I had just done it. What had once felt awkward and inconvenient had become a habit. It had become instinct. I had practiced and learned a new thing.   Most of us understand this when it comes to driving. Or learning an instrument. Or speaking a language. Or playing a sport. Or exercising.   A friend once told me, “Nobody likes running when they first start. You have to just do it. After a while you'll reap the benefits.” I never forgot the wisdom. You may not start out loving the practice. But you practice because of what the practice is shaping you to become.   And I've been thinking this week that much of the Christian life works the same way. Many of us want to become more loving, more patient, more generous, more courageous. We want to respond to conflict with grace. We want to be less fearful and more trusting. We want our lives to reflect the love of Christ. But how does that happen?   John Wesley believed that the goal of the Christian life was what he called “Christian perfection.” Unfortunately, that phrase has caused confusion for generations. Wesley wasn't talking about becoming flawless. He wasn't talking about never making mistakes. He wasn't talking about acting like we've got it all together. He was talking about becoming so filled with the love of God that God's love begins to overflow from our lives.   I often picture it like a pitcher being filled with water. As we open ourselves to receive God's love and mercy—God's grace!—we are filled. And just as a pitcher overflows once it becomes full, so God's love begins to overflow in our lives. Love spills over. Mercy spills over. Compassion spills over. Generosity spills over. Wesley believed that this could happen. In fact, he believed it was the goal of those who would follow Christ.   Or as the hymn puts it: “Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of thy love.” I love that phrase. The impulse of thy love. Because it suggests a life in which love becomes our first instinct. A life in which generosity and mercy become as natural as breathing. A life in which our hands move at the impulse of God's love. Wouldn't that be something?   The question is: How do we become those people? And Wesley's answer was surprisingly practical. We practice. We train. We place ourselves again and again in the flow of God's grace. Wesley called these practices “means of grace.” Prayer. Scripture. Worship. Holy Communion. Christian conversation and accountability. Small groups. Acts of mercy and service.   And this week, I want to invite you to choose one. Not all of them. Just one. Spend a few minutes each day reading scripture. Or pray each morning before you reach for your phone. Or read a daily devotion. Or intentionally perform one act of kindness or service each day. Choose one way to place yourself in the flow of God's grace and practice it every day this week.   These are means of grace not because they are things that earn God's love or make God love us more. They are not means of grace because checking enough religious boxes gets us into heaven. But because these practices place us where God's transforming grace can reach us. God's grace is always present—whether we're practicing the means of grace or not. But these practices have been shown over the centuries to place us in the flow of God's grace in a very concentrated way.   There is a distinction between trying and training. Anyone can try to run a marathon. But only someone who trains will actually finish one. The same is true of the Christian life. Anybody can try to be more loving. Anybody can try to be more patient. Anybody can try to forgive. But becoming Christlike requires more than trying. It requires training in grace.   This is why Methodists became Methodists. John Wesley was nothing if not methodical. The early Methodists became known for their methods—the practices and habits that helped them grow in love of God and neighbor. And that brings us to Romans 12.   After eleven chapters proclaiming the mercy and grace of God, Paul writes: “I appeal to you therefore...on the basis of God's mercy...” Paul doesn't begin with an appeal based on obligation or guilt or fear, but rather an appeal on the basis of God's mercy. Grace comes first. Then Paul says, “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice.” Notice that he doesn't say, “Present your beliefs.” He says, “Present your bodies.” The Christian life isn't simply a set of ideas we agree with. It is a way of life. It is embodied. It is practiced.   Then Paul says: “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds.” This is such a perennial call—true in every age! It is easy to become conformed to the things of this world. All of us are being formed by something. The news forms us. Social media forms us. Fear forms us. Our families, culture, and education form us. The question is not whether we are being formed. The question is: By what?   Paul doesn't tell us to transform ourselves. He says, “Be transformed.” God is the one doing the transforming. Our work is to place ourselves where God's grace can do its work. And then Paul immediately shows us what a transformed life looks like: Let love be genuine. Love one another. Rejoice in hope. Be patient in suffering. Persevere in prayer. Practice hospitality.   These things are not feelings. They are practices. They are things we do again and again until they begin to shape who we are. Nobody wakes up one day naturally hospitable. Nobody wakes up instinctively patient. Nobody wakes up automatically generous. These things are formed through grace and practice.   And then our reading from Acts shows us what that formation looks like in community. The Spirit comes at Pentecost. Thousands are baptized. A movement is born. And what do they do next?   Luke says: “They devoted themselves.” That may be the most important phrase in the whole passage. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. They devoted themselves. Not occasionally or when it was convenient or when they felt inspired. They devoted themselves. They showed up again and again. They listened to the story of Jesus. They prayed together. They shared meals. They worshiped together. They cared for one another. And over time something happened. They became a different kind of people.   Their possessions became less important than their neighbors' needs. Their tables became larger. Their hearts became more generous. Their lives became more joyful. Their witness became more compelling. The Pentecost miracle of Acts 2 is not only that the Spirit came in a wondrous way and moved previously fearful disciples to do wondrous things. The miracle is also that people kept showing up. They devoted themselves to practices that opened them to God's grace. And God's grace formed them into a community that looked different from the world around them. They were not conformed to their age, but were transformed by the saving grace and love of God in Christ Jesus.   Friends, this is part of who we are as United Methodists. We have practices. We have rhythms. We have a path: prayer, presence, gifts, service, and witness, and all the means of grace handed down through generations. They're not handed down because God needs them, but because we do. Not because they earn us salvation, but because they help open us to receive the grace that is already being offered.   And over time, through worship and prayer, through scripture and communion, through service and generosity, God does what only God can do. God transforms us. God fills us. And little by little, sometimes so gradually we hardly notice, our lives begin to move at a different impulse. The impulse of love. The impulse of mercy. The impulse of grace.   “Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of thy love.” That is the goal. It's not about perfectionism. The goal is perfect love—lives so shaped by God's grace that one day we discover we are no longer merely trying to love. By the grace of God, we have begun to move at the impulse of God's love. This week, choose one way to place yourself in the flow of God's grace. Not because God needs it. Because you do.  

We can even ruin generosity by congratulating your right hand of giving with your left hand of pride.We must be careful, because thinking of ourselves too highly, is maybe just ½ a step away from thinking about God too lowly.Don't ruin generosity by what can happen when your personal pr department starts tooting its own trumpet.Listen 6 ½ minutes to get this right. https://youtu.be/B6EcjlIBFuE

The Mount //Week 9// Worry in God's Kingdom Matthew 6:25-27 NIV  25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Learn from the Fowls - Trust God's Provision Matthew 6:26a NIV 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Matthew 6:26b-27 NIV Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Ephesians 2:10 NIV  10 For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 NLT 10 For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Matthew 6:28-29 NIV 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. Learn from the Fowls - Trust God's Provision Learn from the Flowers - Trust God's Process Matthew 6:28-29 NIV 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. Matthew 6:30-32 NIV  30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?' or ‘What shall we drink?' or ‘What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. Learn from the Fowls  - Trust God's Provision Learn from the Flowers - Trust God's Process Learn from Your Firsts - Trust God's Principles and Practices Matthew 6:33 NIV 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Tzedakah (צדקה): Justice, Generosity, Caring for the poor, Restoring shalom, Living rightly within community. Matthew 6:34 NIV 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Learn from the Fowls  - Trust God's Provision Learn from the Flowers - Trust God's Process Learn from Your Firsts - Trust God's Principles and Practices

Read my new book, "The Price of Becoming." www.LearningLeader.com/Becoming This is brought to you by Insight Global. If you need to hire one person, hire a team of people, or transform your business through Talent or Technical Services, Insight Global's team of 30,000 people around the world has the hustle and grit to deliver. My Guest: Scott Harrison is the founder and CEO of charity: water, a non-profit that has raised over a billion dollars and funded tens of thousands of water projects to bring safe drinking water to millions. He previously spent a decade as a New York City nightclub promoter before a dramatic career shift led him into humanitarian work. Key Learnings Scott started a charity: water with $20 from a birthday party. Then $15,000... Twenty years later: over a billion dollars raised, 21 million people served. He says it should be 10 to 100 times more. The cure for water already exists. We're looking for water on Mars while 700 million people drink dirty water on Earth. We solved this hundreds of years ago. We just haven't implemented it. 25% of the money sitting in American donor-advised funds would give every human on Earth clean water. That's parked philanthropic capital. Already tax-benefited. Just waiting. The goal is always 10X what you're doing. If we raised a million last year, we want ten this year. If we raise $100 million, we should raise a billion. The opportunity is always orders of magnitude larger than the moment. Show, don't bullet. Scott shows 210 photos in a 45-minute keynote. No PowerPoint. Single images. A story unfolds frame by frame. Be early to the technology. First charity on Instagram. First to hit a million Twitter followers. First to use VR. The question is always the same: how does this new thing further the mission? The 100% model: solve for the cynic.  Public donations go to one bank account that funds only water projects. Overhead is raised separately from entrepreneurs and business leaders. Then track every donation to a specific village. Don't be mid. Scott's 11-year-old daughter says nobody wants to be mid. Excellence is a core value. There's a lot of mid out there. Design everything. The fact cover sheet. The PowerPoint. The website. The package. "We're always dating." If the message comes in an ugly package, you're at a disadvantage before you start. Treat the donor like a Michelin three-star guest. If a restaurant can think that carefully about a meal, you can think that carefully about a donor who can save a million lives. The Goldman Sachs partner who changed Scott's paradigm. Before making an eight-figure ask, Scott asked a partner: "How does it feel when people ask for a lot more than you expected?" The expected answer was irritated, offended, put off. The actual answer: "I feel flattered that they think I would be that generous." People are generous. The well is there. You just have to drill deep enough. Scott has spent 20 years asking for too little. That might be his next obsession. People give to people, not causes. A dynamic leader who transfers their enthusiasm gets the donation. The cause doesn't. Most of the donations Scott and his wife give are to people, not topics they were already passionate about. Talk 10% of the time. When Scott meets a donor for the first time, he wants to know their whole life story. Their marriage. Their kids. What they wanted to be when they grew up. Be genuinely curious or don't bother. Hire for integrity, humility, curiosity, and energy... 16,000 applicants for 36 roles last year. Energy matters most. Someone who can get you fired up about pickleball, Patagonia, or a new running shoe is exactly who you want on the executive team. The dinner test for hiring: Can you imagine having this person at your home for two hours at dinner? And wanting to keep them for another hour? Get the whole life story. Scott wants the arc from the beginning to the present in an interview. If someone can't tell their own story coherently, they probably don't know themselves yet. The 11-year-old with the piggy bank. He told his parents he was going to fund a whole village. They told him to set a realistic goal. He went knocking on doors. He came back with $10,000. Scott's experience lab in Nashville. A 60-minute immersive tour. A 100-degree room with a treadmill where you carry a 40-pound water vessel. Microscopes that show you parasites. A VR film that ends in celebration. The "give shop," not the gift shop. 53% of visitors donate. 10,000 visitors. $3.9 million raised in year one. Scott's champagne moment: a single billionaire who picks water. The water sector doesn't have one. Republicans and Democrats agree on it. Atheists and people of faith agree on it. Everyone has to drink. Reflection Questions What is the 10X version of your current goal? Where are you asking for too little because the smaller ask felt safer? Who in your work or life is the Michelin three-star guest, the customer, donor, or partner who deserves your most thoughtful experience design?  When was the last time you went 10% talking, 90% genuinely curious about someone else's story?  More Learning:  #290: Scott Harrison – Redemption, Compassion, & The Transformative Power Within Us #680: Scott Galloway - Don't Follow Your Passion, Follow Your Talent #682: Will Guidara - Adversity is a Terrible Thing to WasteAudio Chapters 00:00 The Price of Becoming - Pre-Order Now! 01:18 Welcome Back, Scott Harrison 02:56 From a $20 Bill to Over $1 Billion Raised 04:59 Why the Goal Should Always Be 10X (or 100X) 07:54 Storytelling: How to Get People to Care About a Problem They Don't Feel 10:30 Being Early to Instagram, Twitter, and VR 16:10 Radical Transparency: The Bank Account That Built Trust 19:51 The Beauty of a Healthy Obsession 21:22 Drilling Deep for the Artesian Wells of Generosity 25:04 What It Feels Like in the Room When Generosity Breaks Through 27:01 "Nobody Wants to Be Mid." 30:56 Design Everything: We're Always Dating 32:13 Treat Your Donor Like a Michelin Three-Star Guest 35:39 Selling With Integrity: Talk 10%, Listen 90% 39:15 16,000 Applicants for 36 Jobs: What Scott Looks For 43:12 The Power of Vulnerability in Hiring 45:39 Inside the Nashville Experience Lab 50:34 The Champagne Question: A Billion-Dollar Vision 52:10 The 11-Year-Old Who Raised $10,000 Door-to-Door 54:25 EOPC  

Making Space, Simplicity and Generosity: Matt Metzger | June 14, 2026

Ears To Hear // Filthy Rich: From Etortion To Generosity (Pt.4) | Jared Douglas

Episode Notes Grace

Generosity is about discipleship, not finances, and is rooted in trusting Father God, who gave everything first. Drawing on 2 Corinthians 9:6-11 and 2 Peter 1:4, this message in the BECOMING series calls us to live with open hands and hearts in our finances, time, relationships, and forgiveness, reflecting the Father's abundant nature.

Main Point: 2 Corinthians 8:1–9 reveals three lessons in gospel generosity that call us to grow in the grace of God and reflect the generosity of Christ toward those in need.

Over the past several weeks, we've been talking about finances and how a biblical perspective shapes our approach for the better. We've explored how true happiness is not found in the pursuit of "more," but in the intentional management of what God has provided as we shift toward radical generosity. We've also touched on how tithing demonstrates unwavering trust, moving our relationship with God from words to concrete action. This week, we end our series by showing that contentment is not a commodity to be acquired but a harvest reaped through intentional stewardship. Pastor Ken reminds us that happiness isn't something we get, but the result of how we live. Wanting more money doesn't lead to satisfaction; it's about how we manage what we have. Jesus warned we can't serve both God and our desires. Letting desire rule leads to discontent and debt. For lasting peace, we should track our resources, plan ahead, save, eliminate debt, and give generously. Generosity reflects God's character, is worship, and brings blessing.

What if the most radical thing you could do this week isn't posting on social media or volunteering more hours, but simply opening your wallet? Pastor Rob takes us on a journey through Scripture, revealing that from the very beginning—before any law demanded it—people like Abel, Noah, and Abraham gave generously to God out of pure overflow, not obligation. Their hearts were so overwhelmed by God's goodness that generosity wasn't a duty but a natural response. Rob challenges our modern misconceptions about tithing, showing how Old Testament believers actually gave 23% annually through three different tithes, yet even this pales compared to what Jesus calls us to today. The widow's two coins and Zacchaeus's radical generosity demonstrate that our standard isn't the tithe—it's the cross. When we truly grasp what Christ sacrificed for us, percentage-based giving becomes laughably small. "The standard of giving in the Old Testament was the tithe; our standard is the cross."

Pastor Jim examines a period of peace and transition in the life of the biblical figure Abraham from Genesis 21. He focuses on a specific narrative where Abraham enters into a covenant with King Abimelech, emphasizing the importance of believers acting as peacemakers within their local communities and the state. Pastor Jim highlights how Abraham uses generosity and honest communication to resolve a dispute over a well, suggesting that modern Christians should similarly strive for harmonious and generous relationships with those outside the church. He also encourages the congregation to utilize times of relative calm to strengthen their faith by drawing deeply from the "well" of scripture. Ultimately, he presents these peaceful intervals as essential opportunities for spiritual preparation and establishing a resilient identity in God's grace before future trials arise. Support the showThanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook or Instagram more info colonialkc.org

The Beyond Earth Show with Ray Trujillo Planetary Alignment, Sacred Self-Love, and the Cosmic Call to Rebalance Your Life A Celestial Opening Beneath God's Vast Cathedral In this episode of The Beyond Earth Show, host Ray Trujillo opens the June 13, 2026 transmission by welcoming listeners into a reflection on planetary alignment, the upcoming super new moon in Gemini, and the energetic strands moving through personal and collective life. He frames the episode around soul family, soul contracts, animals, nature, guardian angels, cosmic frequency, and the love of God within a universe that may appear random but is spiritually interwoven. Ray's tone is devotional, metaphysical, and introspective, inviting listeners to look both upward toward the celestial field and inward toward the sacred movements within themselves. When Venus, Jupiter, and Mercury Light Up the Inner Sky Ray focuses on the visible planetary alignment involving Venus, Jupiter, and Mercury, also referring to a broader planetary parade that some describe as including additional planets. He shares that he recently photographed the alignment and found it astonishing that such a beautiful celestial arrangement could be seen with the naked eye and captured with an ordinary camera. Rather than treating the alignment only as an astronomical event, he asks what it may mean for people's daily lives, including their careers, relationships, health, money, emotional states, and inner sense of direction. Breakthroughs at the Crossroads of Career, Health, and Love Ray explains that he has been witnessing a collective pattern of breakthroughs among people he has helped, especially after periods of anxiety, waiting, uncertainty, or personal crossroads. He connects the alignment to clarity in finances, career, relationships, partnerships, and health concerns. In his view, many people are reaching the “home stretch” of situations that have been unclear or unresolved. The planetary conjunction becomes a symbolic and energetic marker of revelation, helping people see where they truly stand and where movement may finally be possible. Science, Spirit, and the Ancient Habit of Looking Up Ray then reflects on the long human tradition of looking to the heavens for guidance, referencing ancient sages, astronomy, and the story of the wise men looking toward the star connected with Jesus. He says that everything above exists under God's celestial creation, while human beings interpret the stars through belief, personal truth, science, metaphysics, and spirituality. For Ray, these fields do not need to oppose one another. Instead, the sky becomes a place where science, spiritual symbolism, and God's creation converge into one vast, meaningful canopy. The Human Body as Its Own Sacred Alignment Ray draws a parallel between planetary alignment and the alignments within human beings. He speaks of chakras, anatomy, blood, the brain's hemispheres, emotional balance, intellectual life, spiritual devotion, and the internal rotations that shape each person's experience. He asks listeners to consider where they are suffering, what is causing that suffering, what would bring them the most joy, and how they might go about “the Father's business.” In this section, the celestial alignment becomes a mirror for personal realignment, encouraging listeners to ask whether their inner world is balanced, prayerful, and connected to higher will. Venus, Sacred Love, and the Mirror of Self-Worth The episode moves deeply into the meaning of Venus, which Ray associates with love, beauty, relationship, harmony, and the goddess-like image of Aphrodite. He reflects on love as a supernatural power that carries sacredness, innocence, and purity, while also acknowledging that love can have shadow aspects when it becomes excessive, blind, unhealthy, or undisciplined. Ray then turns the conversation toward self-love, asking whether listeners can look in the mirror and sincerely say, “I love you.” He connects this to mirror work, self-worth, the teachings of Louise Hay, and the importance of reconditioning the inner dialogue. Prayer, Water, and the Energetic Imprint of Words Ray discusses the emotional and vibrational power of words, thoughts, and intention. He references Dr. Masaru Emoto's work with water as an example of how emotion and vibration may leave an imprint. Ray says that speaking love, prayer, beautiful music, and sincere affirmation can shape the energy within and around us. He compares mirror work to prayer, explaining that both require focus, sincerity, clarity, and intentionality. Whether a person is praying to God, guardian angels, saints, the Holy Spirit, or focusing through meditation, Ray emphasizes that real transformation requires conscious presence rather than empty repetition. Jupiter's Generosity and the Spiritual Economy of Giving Ray then turns to Jupiter, describing it as expansive, benevolent, prosperous, and connected to karmic patterns. He links Jupiter's influence with generosity, prosperity, love, fortune, career, relationships, and health. A major part of the episode centers on the principle that what people give is what they receive. Ray uses simple examples of neighbors exchanging apples, lemons, oranges, nectarines, strawberries, and almonds to illustrate energetic reciprocity. He emphasizes that giving does not have to mean money; it can include prayers, hope, compliments, compassion, encouragement, and sincere wishes for another person's good. Mercury, Communication, and the Cosmic Window Into the Heart With Mercury, Ray focuses on communication, decision-making, clarity, intellectual processing, and the ability to speak with oneself, God, the universe, and the cosmic kingdom. He says this alignment offers a “cosmic window” into the heart, intellect, and interior life. Through that window, people can ask whether their energy is balanced, where they are giving too much, where they are being drained, and how they can recharge themselves. The Mercury influence becomes a call to communicate wisely, inwardly and outwardly, with honesty, discernment, and spiritual awareness. Gemini's Super New Moon and the Discipline of the Pause Ray prepares listeners for the upcoming super new moon in Gemini, warning that it may bring emotional explosiveness, sudden honesty, impulsivity, or communication shakeups. He does not present this as fear-based, but as a time for temperance, patience, and self-control. He advises listeners to think before speaking, especially if they feel the urge to be brutally honest or direct. Boundaries are important, but Ray cautions that harshness can create regret and require repair later. If something is not urgent, he says, it can wait, because patience is a virtue and not every emotional impulse needs immediate expression. Cord-Cutting, Boundaries, and the Courage to Release What Drains You Ray also speaks to listeners who may be feeling emotionally exhausted, empathically overloaded, or weighed down by the frequency of recent events. He encourages rest, self-care, and time out, especially for caregivers, caretakers, and people whose work or life has become draining. He says this may be an especially meaningful time to examine energetic cords, negative attachments, one-sided relationships, vampiric drains, and situations that no longer contribute to peace, health, or harmony. His advice is to review what serves, what does not serve, what is reciprocal, what is harmful, and whether a person, place, object, or decision truly aligns with one's future. Gratitude as the Light That Magnetizes More Light Near the end, Ray emphasizes gratitude as a life-giving, life-affirming force. He encourages listeners to be grateful not only for blessings, but even for some painful experiences that taught them, strengthened them, or revealed survival. He explains that gratitude opens fields in the brain, heart, body, and spirit, creating a “magic essence” that attracts more auspicious events. By contrast, self-defeating thoughts, regret, anger, and limiting beliefs can magnetize more darkness. Ray compares this to choosing which mirror to look into: the mirror of gratitude, light, and possibility, or the mirror of complaint, despair, and limitation. Becoming the Miracle You Are Waiting For Ray closes by reminding listeners that they deserve to receive, deserve answered prayers, and are themselves part of the miracle they seek. He encourages them to use the alignments and energetics of the celestial field under God's kingdom for their own highest good and for the good of everyone around them. His final message is one of self-affirmation, faith, gratitude, light, and service. He thanks the audience for joining him, blesses them, and says he will return in two weeks.

SummaryIn this episode, Ashwini Balasubramanian shares her inspiring journey of embracing change, leadership, and advocating for women in the workforce. She discusses her career, her book 'Map Your Ascent,' and practical frameworks for personal and professional growth. Key TopicsEmbracing change and growth mindsetThe 3P framework: Personality, Perspective, PresenceWomen in automotive industry and leadershipThe importance of visibility versus advocacyStrategies for career advancement and influenceThe role of generosity and giving backOvercoming challenges related to motherhood and careerThe story behind the book 'Map Your Ascent'The importance of intentional career planningBuilding a supportive community for women in industry TakeawaysEmbrace change as a catalyst for growth rather than a threat.Understand your wiring and belief systems to navigate change effectively.Build your influence through generosity and authentic impact.Visibility without advocacy is not enough for career progression.Map your career with clear goals and opportunity filters.Leverage your unique wiring to find belonging and thrive in new environments.Women should lean on their village and ask for help without guilt.Create a supportive community to empower women in industry.Your best advocate is yourself—own your career journey.The right mindset and intentional planning can unlock your leadership potential.Chapters00:00 Embracing Change: A Journey of Growth13:54 Building a Supportive Community for Women27:51 Navigating Career Challenges as Women42:10 The Role of Generosity in Leadership23:15 Thriving Through Change24:41 The Journey to Authorship27:25 Understanding the 3P Framework30:51 Building Presence and Impact37:48 Advice for Early Career WomenLinks and ResourcesMap Your Ascent: Embracing Change as Your Leadership JourneyAshwini Balasubramanian on LinkedInAutomotive Women's Alliance Foundation No Woman Left BehindThe Articulation GapFree Impact Clarity AI Tool

(Vallecitos Mountain Retreat Center) Drawing in the Buddhist teaching of dependent co-arising, this talk explores what it means to belong to a living world

What Mature Christianity Actually Looks Like is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. How do you know if you’re truly growing in Christ and not just growing in knowledge? As Paul closes his first letter to the Corinthians, he gives us a surprising answer. After sixteen chapters addressing division, pride, immorality, spiritual gifts, worship, and the resurrection, Paul ends not with lofty theology, but with practical examples of what genuine spiritual maturity looks like in everyday life. In this week’s episode of the Riot Podcast, we unpack 1 Corinthians 16 and discover that mature Christianity is revealed not just in what we believe, but in how we live. Together we’ll explore: Why generosity is a mark of spiritual maturity How integrity and accountability protect God’s work What it means to make plans while remaining surrendered to God’s will Why God often opens doors of opportunity alongside opposition The importance of humility and healthy ministry relationships Why Christians must remain watchful, courageous, and strong in their faith Why love must govern everything we do How God values faithful servants more than worldly success Why loving Jesus is the center of the Christian life How grace and love become the final evidence of true spiritual maturity Paul’s closing message is as relevant today as it was two thousand years ago. Mature Christianity looks like: Generosity instead of selfishness Courage instead of compromise Service instead of status Faithfulness instead of quitting Love instead of pride Grace instead of condemnation The Christian life is not about becoming impressive. It is about becoming faithful. In a world obsessed with influence, recognition, and success, God is looking for men and women who will stand firm, serve others, love deeply, and keep their eyes fixed on Christ. If you’ve ever wondered what spiritual maturity actually looks like, this episode is for you. Stay faithful. Love deeply. Serve boldly. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Because in the end, those are the things that truly matter. #ChristianPodcast #MatureChristianity #1Corinthians16 #SpiritualGrowth #FaithInAction #ChristianDiscipleship #BibleStudy #RiotPodcast #ChristianLiving #Faithfulness #ServeOthers #LoveLikeJesus #GraceAndTruth #KingdomLiving #FollowJesus Thanks for listening and don’t forget to: Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Instagram Subscribe to our Youtube Channel Follow us on Rumble The RIOT PODCAST is a listener-supported podcast: Donate Now

(Vallecitos Mountain Retreat Center) Drawing in the Buddhist teaching of dependent co-arising, this talk explores what it means to belong to a living world

Send us Fan MailNonprofit donor behavior trends in 2026 are revealing something unexpected: generosity is alive and well! The challenge isn't donor willingness to give—it's whether nonprofits are making it easy, clear, and compelling for supporters to take action.We welcome Mary Crogan, Vice President of Brand Marketing at Bloomerang, to discuss findings from the newly released Giving Signals Report. Based on research conducted with more than 1,000 donors and 405 fundraisers, the report challenges many assumptions about today's fundraising environment.The data shows that donors remain highly motivated to support causes they care about. In fact, 97% give because they care about their communities, 96% want to make a difference, and 92% say giving is part of who they are.As Mary explains, "The fact is, donors are actually ready. They want to give. The question is whether the organizations are positioned to engage and receive that generosity."The conversation explores how nonprofits can bridge the gap between caring and giving through greater clarity, stronger impact communication, and a smoother donor experience.One of the most striking findings? Seventy percent of donors say a tipping prompt could cause them to reconsider giving altogether, while 79% say unexpected fees create hesitation. These are preventable barriers that may be costing organizations revenue every day.The discussion also highlights the growing influence of millennial donors. Seventy-five percent plan to increase their giving this year, while 80% intend to support at least one new nonprofit.Mary offers a simple but powerful challenge for nonprofit leaders:“Can someone who comes to your site answer these questions in less than 30 seconds: What does this organization do? Who do they serve? Where does the money go? And is it working?"If your organization wants to strengthen donor trust, improve fundraising results, and better understand how donor expectations are evolving, this conversation delivers important research and valuable perspective.Key Takeaways• 97% of donors care deeply about their communities and remain motivated to give.• 94% are more likely to donate when organizations clearly explain where funds go.• 70% of donors may reconsider giving when presented with tipping prompts.• 79% say unexpected fees negatively impact their willingness to complete a gift.• 75% of millennials plan to increase their giving this year and 80% will support a new nonprofit.• Transparent reporting, visible impact, and frictionless giving experiences are becoming major competitive advantages. 00:00:00 Introduction to the Giving Signals Report 00:02:00 What 1,000 Donors Revealed About Giving 00:04:00 Generosity Is Shifting, Not Declining 00:06:00 The Clarity Gap Between Caring and Giving 00:08:00 The 30-Second Website Audit Every Nonprofit Needs 00:11:40 How Fees and Tipping Prompts Hurt Donations 00:15:00 Creating a Frictionless Donor Experience 00:16:25 Why Millennial Donors Matter Right Now 00:20:30 Closing the Donor Trust and Clarity Gap 00:24:20 What's Next for Giving Signals Research #TheNonprofitShow #FundraisingStrategy #DonorEngagementFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us  Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!  12:30pm ET   11:30am CT  10:30am MT  9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Proverbs Topic: Generosity // Alex Fejedelem by Coral Hill Baptist

What happens when a young couple has to shift from talking about dream dates, honeymoons and wedding bells, to discussing bills and bank accounts? In this transparent and real-life talk, Gaby Alessi Calatayud and her husband Christian share their experience of learning to manage their finances together—without losing their unity or peace of mind. They share why they are doing their best to learn wise strategies from the beginning - from balancing individual spending habits and setting up budgets to tackling debt and resisting the pressure to “look rich” on social media.You'll hear honest reflections on learning to merge money personalities, create open communication about spending, and keep generosity and teamwork at the core - no matter how long (or shortly) you've been married. With actionable advice and plenty of relatable moments, discover how putting trust, grace, and shared goals above the numbers on your bank account can transform how you handle money—and your marriage.If you enjoyed this episode, here's another great TFB episode on managing money and family! Money Matters S4 E10Support the showJOIN THE FAMILY BUSINESS WITH OUR NEWSLETTERSign Up for Our Family Business Newsletter and get more inside news from the Alessis + tips and strategies for a happier family! Get free access to the newsletterTEXT THE FAMILY BUSINESS DIRECTLYYou can connect with us via text to ask family questions and get updates on The Family Business! Text FAMILY to 302-524-0800CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY BUSINESSFollow Us on Instagram and FacebookSubscribe on YouTubeLeave a reviewMORE PODCASTS YOU'LL ENJOYListen to the Alessi sisters' daily devotional podcast My Morning DevotionalFollow Our New Podcast with Mary Alessi and her twin sister Martha MunizziWatch The Mary and Martha Show

Claude AnShin Thomas - Zen Buddhist monk, combat veteran, and author - responds to questions in an inspiring manner based on his Zen practice and life experiences. He reminds the listener how to stay awake to life and understand more deeply the traps of a deluded mind. This episode was recorded during a weekly online meeting of questions & responses. For more information: https://www.zaltho.org If you want to ask Claude AnShin Thomas a question, please feel free to write to info@zaltho.org. Book recommendations:https://www.zaltho.org/books/ To support, donate. If you are interested in a specific question, this is the list of questions that Claude AnShin responded to and the time stamps for those questions so that you can go directly to the topic that is of most interest to you. Questions and Time Stamps: 1:20 — What does it mean to be of maximum service, and how do you avoid exhaustion? 5:04 — At what point does something become political? 6:32 — In reference to Question 1, do you have few or many "no's" in your head? 12:12 — How much time would you invest in a flat you will only be in for two years? 16:30 — Is it difficult for you to rely on others' generosity? 23:11 — How does surrendering manifest itself today? 27:25 — Were you disciplined in elementary school? 31:25 — If a person upsets me, what should I do? 34:05 — Have you ever confessed to a priest?

Chris Westbrook June 7, 2026

Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, knows there's no such thing as a free lunch. And the best way to keep the people on your side is through their stomachs.  It's a lesson King Edward IV has yet to learn. After marrying for love, and starting a diplomatic thaw with Europe, Edward soon finds out that there's really only one task that matters: keeping his most powerful subject loyal.  So the young king allows a raid on a Hanseatic League storehouse on Warwick's behalf, he moves his entire court to Coventry just to coax Warwick to a council meeting, and then stages a grand ceremony at Windsor Castle to project unity. None of it works. Warwick takes every gift and offers nothing in return.  Generosity can be its own kind of trap door. The question is whether the king will recognise it before he's swallowed whole… – As always, Dan's royal favourites can chime in anytime on the royal court on Patreon at patreon.com/thisishistory. And don't forget to listen to this season's accompanying bonus episodes for this miniseries, where Dan and Producer Al trace how the Earl of Warwick was able to attain power that rivalled that of the king's. Plus, Dan gets stuck into how the restive Northern counties provides Warwick with a vulnerability to exploit.  – A Sony Music Entertainment production.  Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts  To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com  Learn more about your ad choices.  Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices  –– Presented by Dan Jones  Producer - Alan Weedon Senior Producer - Dominic Tyerman Executive Producer - Louisa Field  Executive Producer - Dan Jones Production Manager - Jen Mistri  Production Coordinator - Eric Ryan  Head of Content - Chris Skinner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Share this program with a friend or family member at www.joniradio.org!  --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

After nearly taking his own life during a difficult transition from the military, retired Green Beret Scott Mann discovered an unexpected path to healing: telling the stories he most wanted to hide. In this conversation, Scott shares lessons from combat, leading Operation Pineapple Express (rescued 1,000 Afghanis from the Taliban), and his new book, The Generosity of Scars, showing us how our hardest moments can help others feel less alone—and why the stories we're most afraid to tell may be the ones the world most needs to hear.Buy The Generosity of Scars here Support the show: https://www.normalfolks.us/#joinSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After nearly taking his own life during a difficult transition from the military, retired Green Beret Scott Mann discovered an unexpected path to healing: telling the stories he most wanted to hide. In this conversation, Scott shares lessons from combat, leading Operation Pineapple Express (rescued 1,000 Afghanis from the Taliban), and his new book, The Generosity of Scars, showing us how our hardest moments can help others feel less alone—and why the stories we're most afraid to tell may be the ones the world most needs to hear.Buy The Generosity of Scars hereSupport the show: https://www.normalfolks.us/#joinSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS: Why a Former Chess Champion Thinks Your Leadership Is Stuck in the Opening Game John Whitt spent 30 years managing billion-dollar construction portfolios in corporate America — sleeping five or six nights a week in hotel beds, traveling the country, winning at someone else's game. Then he walked away. In this episode, he breaks down what chess taught him about business phases, why generosity outperforms hustle in the long run, and how the "pause factor" keeps leaders from burning out while scaling their impact. From Corporate Construction to Coaching — The Move That Changed Everything "I spent 5, sometimes 6 nights a week, sleeping in a hotel bed, traveling around the country, and it really wasn't good for my sanity, it wasn't good for my family. And then the company decided to move from Southern California to Dallas, and so that was like the — I'm not going to Dallas move, and it's time to start something else."   John's corporate career was successful by every external measure — managing $500 million construction portfolios at companies like CB Richard Ellis. But the lifestyle was hollowing him out. He'd been thinking about leaving for a while when the relocation to Dallas forced his hand. Through behavioral assessment work, he discovered coaching was where his strengths naturally pointed — it had been his primary leadership style all along. In 2010, he invested in a Focal Point coaching franchise, which gave him the tools and training without having to reinvent the wheel. Combined with 30 years of corporate relationships, it was enough to launch. His reflection on the transition is simple: "The cool thing about coaching is that we're just helping people." The Chess Game of Business — Opening, Middle, and End "The way the chess game is played at the higher levels has influenced my way of thinking essentially for the rest of my life. The opening is where you're getting started — startup business, takes a lot of hustle, a lot of energy. But then the transition happens to the middle game, where you have to think a lot more strategically, and tactically with the right move in the right order, because the wrong order will not get you the results you're looking for."   John played in the United States Chess Championships in 1976, and the framework stuck. He maps business growth to three chess phases: the opening (startup hustle, high energy, you do everything), the middle game (strategic delegation, building systems, hiring people with an ownership mindset), and the end game (transitioning assets and resources to serve the life you actually want). The danger zone is the opening-to-middle transition. Founders and leaders get trapped being the go-to person for everything — solving everyone else's problems during business hours and doing their own work after hours and on weekends. The middle game demands a different skill: learning to operate on the business instead of always in it. And it can't happen overnight — you have to prioritize what to change, in what order, or it gets jumbled up. Accomplishing Goals Through Others — The Magic of Discretionary Effort "The magic is accomplishing goals through other people, because when you do that, you're going to do big things. As an individual, you can only do so much. There's only so many hours in a day."   John keeps coming back to one idea: if you're doing it all yourself, your impact is capped at 24 hours. The real unlock is getting other people to give their discretionary effort — that extra gear where someone stays 20 minutes longer because they care, or thinks about the project at home because they're genuinely excited. Discretionary effort isn't something you can demand. It comes from inspiration. John frames it through WIIFM — "What's In It For Me?" — everybody's favorite radio station. Leaders who skip that question get compliance. Leaders who answer it get mountains moved.   The flip side is equally important: many leaders have never been on a high-performing team, so they don't know what they're missing. They accept compliance as normal. Others are smart and capable but lack the relationship skills to inspire. John's point is clear: leadership through inspiration is a learnable skill, not an innate trait. Generosity as Strategy — Time, Talent, and Treasure "Generosity always — I mean, this is unequivocal — always gives you better long-term results. If you plan to be generous, if you say this is who I am and I will do the work that's necessary to be generous, then you will always get better long-term results."   John's 4-Facet LifeShine Generosity Process puts generosity at the center of leadership — an unusual move in a world that defaults to performance metrics and execution frameworks. His argument is that generosity isn't soft. It's strategic. The framework starts with unique identity (who are you?), then moves through three dimensions: time, talent, and treasure. Most people think generosity means writing a check. John says time and talent are far more powerful. A leader who invests the time to communicate vision and inspire the team is being generous — and that generosity compounds into better team performance, stronger relationships, and less burnout over time.   The risk, though, is over-giving. Agile coaches and scrum masters who tie their identity to the work are especially vulnerable — they give so generously at work that they burn out when results don't match expectations. That's where the plan matters: define the life you want, build the business or career to serve that life, and stay disciplined about boundaries. The Pause Factor — How Leaders Protect Their Thinking "You gotta learn to say pause. That's a great idea, I understand what you're saying, we need to spend a little more time on that — so let me schedule some time later. Because right now, if I spend all that time, it's not going to get my best thinking, it's not going to get my best response."   People bring problems to leaders constantly — personal problems, business problems, urgent and not-urgent mixed together. The instinct is to solve immediately. John teaches leaders the "pause factor": acknowledge the importance of what someone brings you, then schedule dedicated time to address it properly. This isn't avoidance — it's quality control for your own thinking. When you're distracted and rushed, you give worse answers. When you pause, you also create space to ask: is this mine to solve, or does it belong to someone on my team?   John extends this to how teams bring problems: train people to come with clarity — here's the problem, here's the challenge, here's some potential solutions. That way the leader can triage effectively in a short time instead of getting pulled into an unstructured conversation that eats an hour. About John Whitt John Whitt is a leadership strategist with 30+ years of business transformation experience, from managing $500 million construction portfolios at companies like CB Richard Ellis to coaching small business owners. He's the author of Checkmate!: Winning Tactics for Translating Ideas Into Money and creator of the Whole Life Leadership experience.   You can link with John Whitt on LinkedIn.  

As Christians, we are called to be generous, but what does that look like when someone asks for money on the street? Should we give? Is there a better way to help? On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West and Dr. David W. Jones explore the ethics of giving to homeless people. They also share how to show compassion without causing harm. Then it’s on to your calls. That’s on Faith & Finance Live, where biblical wisdom meets today’s finances—weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Lead Time, Tim Ahlman and Jack Kalleberg sit down with Philip Meinzen, a longtime LCMS educator and creator of The Grace Formula, for a powerful conversation about stewardship, generosity, tithing, debt, vocation, and the mission of the local church.Philip argues that the church has often allowed the culture to disciple Christians in money, resources, debt, and scarcity — while Scripture gives us a much richer vision of life under grace. The question is not, “How much does the church need?” The better question is, “What does God's grace mean to us, and how does it shape the way we live?”Learn more about Philip's work at https://graceflows.orgSupport the show⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️Care about the future of the LCMS?Join the LCMS Current! (LCMS Current Events Newsletter)https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️To learn more, visit uniteleadership.org

What if generosity isn't about giving more, but trusting more?In this episode, Michelle explores why generosity is one of the most overlooked qualities of effective leadership and personal success. Through stories about protecting ideas, sharing knowledge, and extending kindness even when it's uncomfortable, she challenges listeners to examine where they may be holding on too tightly and what becomes possible when they trust the flow of giving and receiving. If you've ever struggled with scarcity, protection, or fear of being taken advantage of, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on generosity as a pathway to greater abundance and impact.Questions or feedback? Michelle@GrowBy1.comReady to deepen your ability to lead, coach, and create lasting transformation? Learn more about the Coaching Academy at GrowBy1.com/CoachingAcademy.

When Melanie began having regular headaches, her doctors discovered she had a benign tumor in her pituitary gland. The tumor was about the size of a plum and was surgically removed in 2003 and again in 2006 when it recurred. Then in 2017, when it came back a third time, Melanie underwent radiation treatment instead, which caused her to lose her hair. Her twenty-seven-year-old son, Matt, decided to grow out his own hair to make a wig for her. Matt’s selfless, loving act illustrates how one person’s abilities and resources can supply the needs of another person or group. Paul highlights the beauty of such reciprocal generosity in his letter to the Philippians. The believers in Philippi had shared in his “troubles” and “sent . . . aid more than once when [he] was in need” (Philippians 4:14, 16). Having received their gifts, Paul recognized that God had provided amply for his needs. Our willingness to share with one another is often the conduit of God’s provision in our lives. Sometimes we’re in a position to give of our time, talent, or treasure; other times we’re in need ourselves and must rely on the support of another. Through His Spirit working in us, our gifts are “pleasing to God” and a manifestation of our shared life in the Body (v. 18).

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” — Proverbs 19:17 As Christians, we're called to care for the poor. But what should we do when someone asks us for money on the street? Should we give cash? Offer food? Keep walking? And how do we show compassion without causing harm? Dr. David W. Jones joins us to help answer those questions. He's a senior professor of Christian ethics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he has written extensively on moral, theological, and financial issues. He also completed his PhD with a focus on Christian financial ethics. According to Dr. Jones, the Bible is clear: God's people should never be indifferent to poverty. Jesus says, “Give to the one who begs from you” (Matthew 5:42), and 1 John 3:17 warns against closing our hearts to a brother in need. But the harder question is not whether we should care. It is how we should care wisely. Start With the Heart When we see someone asking for help, our first instinct may be suspicion. We may assume the person is lazy, addicted, unwilling to work, or responsible for their situation. But before deciding what to give, we should examine our own hearts. Dr. Jones describes this as the danger of being “middle class in spirit”—quietly believing we have what we have because we worked hard, while the person in need must have failed. But Jesus calls us to be “poor in spirit” (Matthew 5:3). The gospel reminds us that God did not wait for us to deserve His mercy. “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). That does not mean every request should be met with cash. But it does mean every person should be met with dignity. Compassion Requires Wisdom Giving cash directly to someone on the street is not necessarily wrong, but it may not always be the best way to help. If the money is used to support addiction or another destructive habit, our gift could unintentionally cause harm. Christian love seeks the good of the other person. That means generosity should be guided by wisdom, not guilt or impulse. One practical option is to offer non-cash help. You might keep granola bars, bottled water, or other simple items in your car. When possible, you could offer to buy a meal. These small acts can meet a real need while reducing the risk of enabling harm. The goal is not to create a rigid rule, but to ask: What is the most loving and responsible way to help in this situation? Do What You Can With What You Know In a brief encounter, you probably will not know someone's full story. You may not know whether their poverty is connected to job loss, addiction, illness, abuse, poor choices, or circumstances beyond their control. God does not require us to know everything. He calls us to be faithful. That means preparing ahead of time, responding with compassion, and helping in the wisest way available. Sometimes that may be food. Sometimes it may be a meal. Sometimes it may be directing someone to a local ministry or shelter equipped to provide deeper care. Think Beyond the Moment Some needs require immediate aid. Others require long-term involvement. If someone is suffering because of a disaster or emergency, immediate help may be exactly what is needed. But when poverty is tied to addiction, exploitation, family breakdown, or long-term instability, a developmental approach is often more effective. That may involve relationships, accountability, recovery, job assistance, counseling, and support from a local church or ministry. Most of us cannot meet every need on our own. But we can support trusted ministries that serve the homeless and poor with both compassion and structure. Start With What Is Closest The needs around us can feel overwhelming. Hunger, homelessness, addiction, and poverty are everywhere. We may want to help everyone, but we cannot. Dr. Jones points to the principle of moral proximity. We are often most responsible for the needs closest to us—our family, church, neighborhood, and local community. You may not be able to solve world hunger. But you may be able to help someone in your church, support a local shelter, serve with a ministry, or build a relationship with someone God regularly places in your path. God has not called you to solve every problem. He has called you to be faithful with what is in front of you. Generosity Reflects the Gospel When someone asks for help, we should not respond with contempt or indifference. We should respond as people who have received mercy. That does not mean giving cash every time. But it does mean asking God for wisdom, treating people with dignity, and being prepared to help in ways that truly serve their good. Biblical generosity is both compassionate and discerning. It refuses to look away from need, but it also seeks to help without causing harm. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I recently received a personal injury settlement. After paying off our cars and nearly all our debt, my wife and I have about $50,000 in a high-yield savings account, no kids, no mortgage, and only two small interest-free revolving accounts left. I'm 44, earning about $80,000 to $100,000 a year, and my wife earns about $50,000. Should we invest all of this money, or is it okay to enjoy some of it? What investment options should we consider? We have an investment property that's either paid off or could be paid off with cash. Since it's basically our retirement savings and we're around 55, we're trying to decide whether to keep it or sell it. If we sell, is there a way to roll the proceeds into a retirement plan, and how should we think through that decision? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join us as Pastor Chuck takes us through Spent: Generosity that changes lives!

What if one question could completely change your life? Ricky reflects on a journey that took him from the brink of divorce and personal collapse to a life marked by deep blessing, restored relationships, and a generous spirit.

Weekly Sunday sermons from Pastor Mike Powers and other members of our Pastoral Body. Richland Creek Community Church gathers to glorify God in worship, grow as disciples of Jesus, and go on mission with the gospel. For more, visit richlandcreek.com.Main Idea: The grace of God gives us a heart of generosity.1. Generosity is for the church.2. Generosity is fueled by grace.

Generosity sounds great in theory, but when it comes down to practicing it, there can be tension. Vacations, home projects, dinners out…all SO tempting. But James reminds us of what’s important—helping people in need. On our own, we may not be able to do much, but together, we can do a lot.

Generosity sounds great in theory, but when it comes down to practicing it, there can be tension. Vacations, home projects, dinners out…all SO tempting. But James reminds us of what’s important—helping people in need. On our own, we may not be able to do much, but together, we can do a lot.

Becoming a longterm disciple-making presence in our region and beyond.

In 2 Corinthians 9, Paul teaches that generosity is contagious, requires trust, and ultimately leads to worship. As believers step out in faith and give generously, God uses their generosity to meet needs, strengthen faith, and cause thanksgiving to overflow to Him. Generosity is not primarily about money—it is a response to the generous grace we have received through Jesus Christ, the gift too wonderful for words.

Growing in Generosity

2 Corinthians 9 (1) because Generosity Multiplies. (2) because Generosity Delights God. (3) because Generosity Displays Trust. (4) because Generosity Impacts Vertically. (5) because Generosity Strengthens horizontally.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3031: Charlie Brown reflects on a chance encounter in Porto that turned a simple run into a meditation on trust, generosity, and human nature. Through humor, vulnerability, and personal stories, he explores why we instinctively question kindness even though science and experience both suggest generosity makes us happier, healthier, and more connected. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://medium.com/spread-the-ripple/if-kindness-and-generosity-is-so-good-for-us-why-are-we-so-suspicious-of-it-63328da00af4 Quotes to ponder: “Why are we always so suspicious of the kindness of strangers?” “To be generous is to be human. We crave it. It nurtures us.” “When you're generous, you're happier. There's even evidence to suggest you're healthier too because giving to others lowers your stress levels.” Episode references: Free Hugs Campaign: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Free_Hugs_Campaign New York City Marathon: https://www.nyrr.org/tcsnycmarathon Silence of the Lambs: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102926/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if generosity isn't something God wants from you, but something He wants for you? Many people approach generosity with hesitation. They hear the word giving and assume a financial ask is coming. They may wonder if generosity will lead to pressure, obligation, or guilt. But biblical generosity is not meant to be a burden. It is an invitation into joy, freedom, and deeper fellowship with God's heart. Todd Harper, co-founder of Generous Giving, has spent more than two decades helping people discover the joy and freedom of biblical generosity. Through Generous Giving's Journey of Generosity experience, he has seen countless people move from viewing giving as an obligation to seeing it as an opportunity. What Is a Journey of Generosity? A Journey of Generosity, often called a JOG, is a one- or two-day conversational experience designed to help people explore what Scripture teaches about generosity. As Todd likes to clarify, “There's no jogging at a JOG.” Instead, participants gather in a pressure-free environment to consider the biblical truth that “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). The experience includes teaching, stories, discussion, and reflection. Rather than focusing on fundraising, it creates space for people to think deeply and honestly about generosity. That pressure-free approach is central to the experience. Generous Giving does not ask participants for money during a Journey of Generosity. The goal is not to raise funds for an organization, but to help people encounter the beauty of biblical generosity. Removing the Pressure Around Giving For many people, conversations about generosity can feel uncomfortable because they assume there is an agenda. They expect that any teaching on giving will eventually lead to an ask. Todd understands that hesitation. In fact, he says Generous Giving has to repeat often that there really is no catch. After 25 years of hosting these experiences, the ministry has built a reputation for creating “no strings attached” conversations about generosity. That matters because when people do not feel pressured, they are more likely to engage honestly. Walls come down. People can focus on God's Word, listen to stories of real-life generosity, and reflect on what God may be inviting them into. Instead of asking, “How much do I have to give?” they begin asking, “What joy might God have for me in a more generous life?” From Obligation to Opportunity One of the most powerful shifts that often happens during a Journey of Generosity is the movement from “ought to” to “get to.” Many Christians know they should be generous. They believe giving matters. They may even give faithfully. But they can still experience generosity primarily as a duty, an obligation, or a sacrifice. Biblical generosity invites us into something deeper. God is not merely trying to take something away from us. He is forming us into people who reflect His character. He is loosening our grip on money and possessions so we can experience greater freedom, joy, and trust. As people hear stories of others living radically other-centered lives, generosity often becomes attractive. It begins to look less like a demand and more like an invitation. That change never gets old for Todd. He says one of the great joys of facilitating these experiences is watching people move from giving grudgingly to giving joyfully. God Wants Something Good for You For someone who is still hesitant, Todd's encouragement is simple: God wants something good for you. He recently facilitated a Journey of Generosity where one participant, who had walked with the Lord for 40 years, said the experience changed his perspective on generosity and made him want to lean in. That is the heart of biblical generosity. It is not about pressure. It is not about guilt. It is not about meeting someone else's agenda. It is about discovering the joy of participating in God's work with open hands. Generosity shapes our hearts because it draws us closer to the heart of God. Scripture reminds us that God Himself is generous. He gives life, grace, mercy, provision, and ultimately, His Son. When we grow in generosity, we reflect the character of the One who has given everything for us. Take the Next Step If you would like to explore biblical generosity in a deeper, pressure-free way, consider learning more about a Journey of Generosity through Generous Giving. This one- or two-day experience is designed to help believers think more deeply about generosity, faithful stewardship, and the joy of living with open hands. To learn more, visit GenerousGiving.org. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm helping settle my mom's estate. Most of it in Ohio is resolved, but a small pension is going through probate in another state, where she passed away. The attorney sent paperwork asking me to waive my right to an estate audit. Is that normal, and should I sign it—especially given past financial misbehavior in the estate? Also, should I hire my own attorney to help me navigate this? I was scammed while looking for remote work online by people claiming to be connected with Temu. They had me rate items, then pushed my balance negative and kept asking me to add money. Now the account supposedly shows $25,000, but they won't let me withdraw unless I pay another $30,000. What should I do? I'm single and interested in charitable gift annuities. Can I set one up so a family member or friend receives income after me, rather than a spouse? I'm considering around $10,000. How would that work, and what should I look for? My husband and I were recently introduced to something called the Starfish program. Are you familiar with it, and how can we evaluate whether it's a good idea? I'm 68; my husband is 61 and still working; and my Social Security benefit is low because I was a stay-at-home mom for much of my life. Can I collect Social Security based on my husband's record, and how would that work for both of us? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Generous Giving | Journey of Generosity (JOG) Federal Trade Commission (ReportFraud.ftc.gov) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Generosity isn’t something God wants from you—it’s something He wants for you. Many people approach generosity with hesitation, wondering if it will lead to pressure, obligation, or another financial ask. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West and Todd Harper explain that generosity is an invitation into joy, freedom, and deeper fellowship with God. Then, it’s on to your questions. That’s Faith & Finance Live—where biblical wisdom meets today’s financial decisions—weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we delve into the often daunting realm of pricing expertise, guided by none other than John Ray, a luminary in professional consulting. John explains how the psychological barriers we impose on ourselves can significantly hinder our ability to price our services with the confidence they warrant, often leading to the undervaluation of the true worth of our offerings. He emphasizes the profound necessity of adopting a "Generosity Mindset," a concept he meticulously explores in his acclaimed book, which advocates for a transformative approach to business that prioritizes understanding and addressing client needs over mere transactional interactions.Through our conversation, we'll explore how self-perception, client relationships, and pricing strategies interact, and how genuine generosity can lead to sustainable business success. So, prepare to glean insights that may very well revolutionize your approach to business and pricing, as we navigate the landscape of value creation together. The discourse focuses on the essential tenets of leadership and the journey toward sustainable success. We delve into the profound insights shared by seasoned experts, who elucidate on the transformative strategies that distinguish the effective leaders from the rest. At the crux of this episode, we encounter John Ray, whose expertise lies in instilling confidence in professionals as they navigate the treacherous waters of pricing their services. Through his rich experience, encapsulated in his acclaimed work, 'The Generosity Mindset', John dispels the pervasive myths surrounding sales and pricing, urging listeners to adopt a mindset that celebrates value rather than fear it. This episode beckons you to reconsider your own perceptions of self-worth and the intrinsic value you offer, providing not just a roadmap for pricing but a philosophical shift towards a more generous approach to business that fosters trust and mutual respect. The conversation takes a candid turn as we explore the psychological barriers that inhibit professionals from confidently asserting their worth.John underscores the prevalence of negative self-talk, often referred to as 'stinking thinking', which can cloud judgment and inhibit growth. He adeptly navigates through the complexities of imposter syndrome, highlighting its insidious nature and the importance of reframing one's internal dialogue. By inviting listeners to reflect on their own narratives, the episode becomes a mirror, revealing the often-unseen potential that resides within each professional. Through humor and wit, we learn that self-doubt is a common adversary, but one we can conquer by embracing a more generous mindset—one that acknowledges our value and the positive impact we can have on our clients' lives. As we traverse through the nuances of pricing strategies, John introduces practical methods for engaging clients in meaningful conversations about value. He emphasizes the necessity of understanding client perceptions and the importance of asking for feedback. This interactive approach not only empowers professionals to align their pricing with the value perceived by clients but also fosters an environment of open communication and trust. The episode serves as a clarion call for all professionals, regardless of their industry, to embrace a mindset of generosity, where the focus shifts from mere transaction to meaningful relationships. This shift not only enhances business success but also rekindles the joy of serving others, reminding us that in the world of business, true success is measured by the positive impact we have on the lives we touch.Takeaways:In the realm of business, understanding the true value one provides is paramount to pricing effectively and sustaining success, as advocated by John Roy.The concept of a 'Generosity Mindset' is crucial, emphasizing that serving clients' needs can lead to long-lasting relationships and increased business growth.Self-doubt, often manifesting as negative self-talk, can significantly hinder one's ability to confidently price their services, a barrier that must be overcome.Engaging in genuine conversations with clients about their perceptions of value can illuminate insights that transform pricing strategies and ultimately drive business success.Links referenced in this episode:johnray.cogenerositymindset.comamazon.comMentioned in this episode:My friend Dr. Noah St. John calls this 'the invisible brake.' He's giving our listeners a free Revenue Ceiling Audit to help you see what's REALLY holding you back. You'll also get a FREE 30-day membership to Noah Bot, giving you access to Dr. Noah's 30 years of experience to help you reach your next level. But hurry, because there are only 50 available this month. So if you're tired of being stuck at the same revenue level and want to finally break through, get your FREE Revenue Ceiling Audit at https://www.noahvault.com?aff=d28bf6c78150c7f09896297dfe1701c1cd191ac6fc9976779212cec5d38e94d6