It seemed like every year around Christmastime, my mom would remind my siblings and me that “it is better to give than to receive”. I believe she was teaching us that precept at a young age because she wanted to remind us that Christmas was not just about getting gifts, but the true joy was in giving gifts as well. As a youngster, I really didn’t believe that theory at all. However, as the years have separated me from my youth, I have come to realize that my mom knew exactly what she was talking about.
The joy of giving is indeed a special feeling. There’s nothing I enjoy more than seeing the look on my grandkids’ faces when they open a gift from me. Or the joy I receive leaving a basket of goodies on my neighbor’s front porch. I believe that God allows us to experience that joy so that we might become more generous in our giving.
The Bible clearly encourages us to be generous with numerous scriptures that set the standard for helping others. Proverbs 21:26 tells us that “The righteous give without sparing.” Without sparing means that we are giving generously.
Another verse that comes to mind is Deuteronomy 15:10, “Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.” It’s like a circle. We are blessed to be a blessing to others. When we use our gifts that we were blessed with to bless others, God can and will bless us in return. Then we will have more blessings to use to bless others. Isn’t that neat?!
Generosity offers us an opportunity to also be grateful for what we have. Through the blessings that we receive from the Lord, we can and should thank Him for all He’s given us.
2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds us that “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Giving should not be done begrudgingly or out of guilt but should be given in accordance with love for others. Love is what matters most. Verses about giving remind us of the reality that without love, even giving all to the needy is fruitless. It’s important to give with LOVE and to be motivated by care and compassion for others.
It seems there are always more opportunities around the holidays to become a generous giver. If you are looking for a way to give generously this Christmas season, here are a few ideas:
- Dress a live doll – this is sponsored by the Junior Service League in Plainview and benefits children who need Christmas gifts.
- Salvation Army – there are always “bell ringers” at Walmart or United. Any monetary donation is appreciated.
- Give an offering to the local church. The Bible tells us that we should bring our “tithes and offerings” meaning that an offering is over and above our tithe. The local church has ways throughout the year where they can bless families in need.
- Give of your time at a shelter or a food kitchen. Giving doesn’t only mean financially. Your time and talents are a huge part of giving generously.
- Do something kind for a neighbor. Rake leaves. Help take down Christmas lights. Bake cookies. Anything you can do out of love is a blessing!
- Keep that generous giving going all year long! It doesn’t just have to be at Christmas!!!
Give it a try! I promise that if you give generously, you get much more in return. So, during this Christmas season, I pray that you have a generous spirit and realize it truly is BETTER TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE.
We want to thank Vickie Young for sharing this post.
Women's Ministry 