Things are finally slowing down, and I’m getting back my stride. Sometimes it takes saying no, even to the good things, to get back to your routine, your center, your stride. I’ve learned that how you prioritize affects every area of your life. Sometimes prioritizing yourself is a must and is not selfish, but rather wise. It is making sure that you are good, in order to give more to others. It means in order to be generous, you have to prioritize yourself better. If you give yourself away without holding on to pieces of yourself, then in the end you will have nothing left to give.

I think we all are busy, tired, worn out, and stressed. It’s nothing new. What can be new is how generous you are with your time, talents, and treasures despite the stress and worry. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Luke 12:34).” Where is your heart? How have you prioritized your time, energy, schedule, investments, and your heath? Are you generous in those areas or are you tapped out?

“You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God (2 Corinthians 9:11).” This verse informs us to be generous on EVERY occasion. Let me repeat that, EVERY occasion. In order to be generous on every occasion, it takes planning and preparation. It’s hard to be generous with nothing to give. In order to have something to give you have to prioritize your talents, time, and wealth. Because if you have given it all away, then when you are called to be generous with your assets you aren’t able to because you have already spent it. You have to consistently choose to put generosity into action which requires planning and investing. Our generosity points people to God’s glory and love. We are God’s love and kindness in action.

I heard a quote once, “Your priorities are your character.” And your generosity is an extension of your character. Take care of yourself and your priorities, so you can be generous on every occasion.