Day 12: Blessed to Give

entire series here

"Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" (Acts 20:35)

One of the common substitutes for blessed is happy...Giving leads to joy.

Interestingly enough, recent studies have proven the truth of this statement. Giving people are happier than receiving people.

2000 years and another truth of the Bible is scientifically proven accurate. Hmmm...

Giving people are happier people. Stingy people are miserable. Can anyone say Scrooge? This truth actually ties in with yesterday's post too. Collecting one bag of stuff to give away is freeing for you and it is a blessing to others.

There are many other truths about giving...

There is always something you can give. 
Be it giving of your treasures-money, your home. Or your time-in service, volunteering. Or your talents-cooking, instrumental, financial know-how. I have a friend who does taxes for the underprivileged every year. For free.

Giving isn't limited by abundance or lack.
People whom I would deem the poorest in my life are some of the most generous givers. And older, retired saints, living on Social Security checks often out-give men and women bringing in much bigger salaries.

Everything we give was first given to us by God.
Nor is He worshiped with men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things. (Acts 17:25)

We give thanks to the Lord, since everything is from Him...
O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever. (Psalm 30:12)

There is no way to out give God if we make giving back to Him our first priority...

Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,

That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the Lord of hosts,
“If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
That there will not be room enough to receive it. (Malachi 3:10)

Money is always tight after Christmas. People are reeling from extra Christmas expenses, plus winter brings out the worst in our homes and vehicles. But, I would still challenge you to give today. Give in the offering. Give of your time and talents in service. Give what you can afford. Give more than you can afford.

You won't regret it.