Throughout every person’s life, whether we choose to acknowledge it or not, there are certain instances that shape our view of money, wealth, giving, and generosity. Can you think of what the shaping factors are in your own life?

For some, the shaping factors might be a place of want. Some people grew up where life and finances were a struggle. The lack of finances can lead to a desire to obtain and possess. On the other hand, some grew up with great financial resources surrounding them. That abundance can lead to entitlement—taking for granted that those resources will always be there.

For many, the thought of shaping factors is less clear. Here are some questions that may reveal some of the shaping influences for you:

1. What are your favorite TV commercials, and why?
2. When you look at the lifestyles of other families, who would you most want to emulate?
3. How openly did your parents talk about money? How much did they share with you about the state of their finances and giving?
4. What do you remember more from your childhood: a key acquisition or an opportunity to serve?

This blog is part if a series on “4”: 4 Questions, 4 Things, etc. It’s a way of offering concise commentary. Check out the rest of the series of “4”!

Bill High

Bill is CEO & Founder of Vyne Legacy. He works with families to equip them with tools to build multigenerational legacies, and he teaches givers and financial advisers on transformational biblical generosity. He is the co-author with David Green of Giving It All Away and Getting It All Back Again: The Way of Living Generously.

Published September 14, 2017

Topics: Family Legacy

GenerosityMoney