“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” -James 1:5
King Solomon was known as the wisest man in the bible. He had everything a man could desire, nice cars, big houses, fame and fortune. Although he had much treasure on earth, he knew that materialistic things didn’t bring happiness. In the bible, 1 Kings 3 is about Solomon asking for wisdom. God gave him an opportunity to ask for whatever he wants and it will be given, and Solomon asked for an understanding heart to govern the people and know the difference between right and wrong. Since God gives generously, not only did he receive wisdom but he also received riches and fame! No other king in all the world will ever be compared to Solomon [1 Kings 3:13]. God gave generously because he is a generous God.
“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” -1 Corinthians 15:57
Despite our level of faith, we are generously given victory and the opportunity to be saved for eternity. God could have left things the way they were like in the old testament of laws and rules, but would that be generous? would that show the full power and potential of God? No of course not. Could you image having to kill animals or sacrficie burnt offerings for every sin you commit? There would be no time for anything because we sin everyday whether we know it or not. God’s generosity shows through His ultimate sacrifice, Jesus Christ.
“You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.” – Romans 6:18
The word ‘slaves’ is used as an illustration rather than to be taken literally. Previously, people let themselves be slaves to impurity and lawlessness, which led deeper into sin. Now, we are able to be slaves to righteous living so that we will become holy [Romans 6:19]. When we were slaves to sin we were free from the obligation to do right which only resulted in regret and shame. There are eternal consequences when we don’t do what is right. God’s generosity broke the chains of sin and freed us to lead us to holiness. We can either be slaves to sin or slaves to righteousness. When we are slaves to sin, we follow the desires of the flesh and are weak but when we are slaves to righteousness we follow the desires of the Holy Spirit and are made strong. The Lord’s generosity extends us the choice of free will. The decision to be free from the control of sin is our choice just as the ability to remain living in sin is our choice.