Decide to Be Bold: A 10-Day Brave Coaches JourneySample

Boldness in Generosity

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7

“You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.” – Amy Carmichael

Generosity takes boldness. The world says, “Hold tightly to what you have. Protect it. Accumulate more.” But God’s Word calls us to a radically different posture: “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38). Bold generosity demonstrates that our confidence is in God as our provider, not in possessions or bank accounts.

William Wilberforce is a powerful example of this truth. Born into privilege in 18th-century England, he could have spent his wealth and influence on comfort and status. But after his conversion to Christ, his life was radically redirected. Wilberforce gave boldly—not just in finances, but in time, energy, and reputation—to serve the purposes of God.

For decades, he poured himself into the fight to abolish the transatlantic slave trade, even though it was deeply embedded in Britain’s economy and fiercely defended by powerful leaders. Year after year, his efforts in Parliament were defeated. He endured ridicule, criticism, threats, and declining health. Yet he continued to give generously of himself, funding initiatives, organizing campaigns, and rallying support for the cause of freedom. His work went far beyond abolition. He supported education, healthcare for the poor, prison reform, and missionary efforts abroad. Wilberforce’s life was marked by what he called the “reformation of manners”—a vision for society shaped by Christian compassion and morality.

Finally, in 1807, after nearly 20 years of struggle, Wilberforce witnessed the slave trade abolished. Even more significantly, just three days before his death in 1833, Parliament passed the act freeing all slaves in the British Empire. His legacy of bold generosity continues to inspire. He reminds us that generosity is not only about money but about pouring out one’s entire life for the sake of others.

Barnabas in the early church gives us another picture of bold generosity. In Acts 4:36–37, we read that he sold a field he owned and laid the money at the apostles’ feet to care for the needs of the community. His act of generosity built trust, earned him the name “Son of Encouragement,” and advanced the gospel. Barnabas invested not only his resources but also his life, mentoring Paul and supporting missionary journeys that spread the good news across the world.

Generosity reflects bold faith because it often stretches us. To give generously requires believing that God will supply what we need. It is a declaration that money, possessions, or even time are not our masters—God is. Bold generosity is an act of worship, declaring, “Everything I have belongs to You, Lord, and I trust You to provide.”

The Brave Truth: If you are not generous, your love money is greater than your love of God. Bold generosity reflects bold faith. It declares that God, not money, is our provider and security.

Ask yourself: Am I bold in giving, or hesitant and fearful? Bold men invest their time, treasure, and talents in things that last forever.

Action Step: Give boldly this week—whether through financial giving, offering your time to serve, or encouraging someone who needs it.

Reflection Questions

1. Am I bold in giving, or hesitant and fearful about letting go of what I have?
2. What does my generosity (or lack of it) reveal about my trust in God as my provider?
3. How can I, like Wilberforce and Barnabas, use my resources—time, talents, or treasure—to advance God’s kingdom this week?