Welcome to a Lavishing Life
Messages of Hope by Denae Haas

A Tiny Seed

The tiny seed of an idea of living a lavishing life was planted one Sunday as I listened to our pastor teach a message on generosity. I was awakened to the possibility of living a different kind of life as we were challenged to live generously open towards God and the people around us. As I considered it, I realized how tightly I had held on in fear to people and things - my children, my husband, our home, my affections, words, talents and time. I'd been holding on tightly, thinking it was up to me to control our happiness, peace, and the future. But what a small and limited way that was to live.

I find great hope in Maya Angelou's quote in I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. She explained, "I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better." This perspective of learning and growing helps me to receive the grace that God gives.

Trusting God rather letting fear direct my life, I'm learning to live with an open heart and open hands, and finding much more meaning, fulfillment, and freedom in a life that's fully surrendered. There's abundant joy and peace, even in difficulty.

Living out this kind of life, others notice and respond, and we get to be a part of sharing the generous love that God has lavished upon us. The little seeds of generosity grow and multiply, impacting the world around us in ways more beautiful than we could have ever imagined!

I hope you'll join me on this adventure of living A Lavishing Life...

Much Love!

Denae