Putting Others First

We all know what it is like to be around a whiner or selfish person who has to be treated specially, whose needs must always be met for them to be happy.

How do we teach our children to give up their belongings, their time, their lives to others?

1. Teach your children to share and help one another from the very beginning. “You are such a strong boy, and I can see your sister needs your help. Would you please help her carry her box of toys to her room?”
2. Teach your children Bible stories and hero stories about those who gave, such as the little boy who gave his lunch so Jesus could feed the five thousand. Show your children that Jesus looked out on the crowd and had compassion, and say, “I wonder who needs our compassion. Let’s look out for people God brings our way to encourage or to give something to.”
3. Plan real ways for them to give and share. Have them give up their rooms when company comes and sleep on the floor of your bedroom. Then praise them, of course! Let praying for, loving, encouraging, and serving others be the oxygen of your home.

Teaching them to live like this takes years and lots of time and planning, but you will give them the gift of an unselfish heart that serves and character that will give them contentment and self-control for the rest of their lives.

His Promises

But be sure to fear the LORD and faithfully serve him. Think of all the wonderful things he has done for you.

As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good.

Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.