Daily Power #335

Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. (Heb. 13:16)

For the longest time after Amy and I got married, we didn’t give each other gifts. Not for birthdays or anniversaries—not even for Christmas. Once we started our family, we found the cheapest ways possible to buy clothes, toys, and strollers for the kids. We shopped in thrift stores and at yard sales and made a game of it. How little could we spend and still have everything we needed?

This wasn’t that hard for me. As I’ve explained, my nature is to save and to be frugal. When I first entered into adulthood, I was really careful with every penny and reluctant to spend it or give it away. After becoming a Christian, however, I sensed God working in my heart to transform me into a generous person.

It really is more blessed to give than to receive.

No matter what your personality or natural inclination might be, when you practice generosity, you remember to give God your thanks and praise. If you’re not clinging to possessions, wealth, and financial power as the source of your security or identity, then you realize you don’t need to hold on to them. God is the source of all you have, which frees you up to be a conduit of blessing for those around you. You can use what you’ve been given to serve others and to advance your Father’s kingdom.

Today surprise someone with your generosity, whether that be with your time, attention, money—or all three.

Power Lift

You are always so generous to me, Lord. All that I have comes from you. Give me eyes to see those in need around me and show me how I can bless them with your abundance.