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lead to other stingy, withholding behaviors. Our giving attitude, or our need to withhold, are attitudinal responses integrated into our being, affecting spiritual and emotional health. Generosity, or the lack thereof, is a spiritual issue.
The congregation, as a whole, will relate to a particular theology, repeat mantras, and be relatively healthy or unhealthy. Our egos and self-esteem need to be needed; want to be asked to give when there is a need. Regular and consistent giving, by individuals and congregations, sets egos aside and becomes a sign of a life of generosity as in thankfulness we give out of what we have been graciously and lovingly granted by God; ourselves, our time, and our possessions. Regular giving, by individuals and congregations to something bigger than themselves, is an act of trust. Congregations that generously (not compelled to or shamed to) give through benevolences to needs outside themselves will generally be healthier emotionally and spiritually. They will more easily be welcoming of new members, affirming of their pastors, and trusting of God's walking with them into their future.
So, where do we stand on the generosity index? Wisconsinites are 19th from the top in income. We are fourth from the bottom in giving. Our spiritual health is being compromised. Is there any wonder why Jesus gave so much encouragement to live a generous life, or why Luther observed that we need three conversions; our head, our heart, and our pocketbook. The generosity index is a clue to the challenge we face to increasing the emotional and spiritual health of our congregations.
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