The Neighbor Economy

The Neighbor Economy is a free market, freewill system characterized by a spontaneous, decentralized decisions through which individuals invest in a joyful heart and return generosity to meet the needs of others. It’s a perpetual cycle of joy, generosity, gratitude and grace.

Joy

In the context of the Neighbor Economy, joy is not a function of circumstances. It is a state of the mind and heart whereby one believes they are loved by God and are enough in His eyes. That state is achieved by establishing a set of habits that build a relationship with God. That relationship gleans an awareness of purpose (who you are) and calling (how you deliver your who to the world). Therefore, joy is intrinsically linked to your identity and love for God.

Generosity

The investment in joy produces a generous posture towards others. Simply stated, the investment in God’s love returns a love of people, fellow humans created in His image, and the desire to meet their needs. One gives without any expectation of getting anything in return. However, God promises that such generosity will be rewarded because the motivation is to serve others in His name.

Gratitude

In the context of the Neighbor Economy, gratitude is a joyful thanksgiving and praise to God for using you as a conduit to spread His kingdom on earth. It is a genuine, heartfelt thanks for His blessing and grace. Even though you’re flawed, you are enough for Him to use for His glory. You are grateful because He gives you the strength to resist dipping into the stigma of your past failures that attempt to define you. He leads you not into temptation, but delivers and empowers you to live according to His purpose and will for your life.

Grace

God’s grace is the foundation of the Neighbor Economy. Without it, joy, generosity and gratitude is not possible. It’s the humble acknowledgement that we have what we have because God allows us to have it, both the good and the bad, not because of anything we have done to earn it. It’s the awareness and belief that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters in the Neighbor Economy.