“It is more blessed to give than receive.” My friend’s response to my thank you startled me. Her generosity humbled me. She didn’t regret giving; she enjoyed it.

When I became pregnant with our second child we sold our small house and searched for one with more room. Our realtor found one perfect in every way—except for the price. The housing market in Southern California definitely busted our budget.

After gathering a few trusted friends to pray for direction and provision we walked away with our dream house. God moved the pray-ers to lend us the extra money at no interest for five years. I felt like I was part of a miracle.

My friends words and tears made me realize that giving at God’s prompting not only meets practical needs in the receiver but touches the hearts of both giver and receiver.

Recently someone I barely knew called and offered us the special type of mattress I’d been praying for. I’d hoped God would provide a special sale. Instead, this person remembered I’d mentioned I hoped to get one and called to offer her barely used one.

Through her generosity I felt loved by God that He would give me the desire of my heart. And since Jesus said it is more blessed to give than receive (Acts 20:35), I know that if I was so blessed by her generosity, she will be more blessed.

This motivates me to bless others. What do I have to share? Perhaps it is as simple as time to spend with a friend or a tip I learned that would help someone else. Maybe it is treasure, knowledge, affection, or a skill.

Jesus said, “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,” (Luke 6:38).

I have experienced this. When I wisely give my time to help someone, God multiplies my time someplace else. When I give my best effort to someone, God increases my ability. Even if the receiver doesn’t appreciate it, God sees and does.

The Bible gives guidelines on who to help. We are to be wise stewards—not indiscriminate Santa Clauses. Continuing to work with someone who is stubborn and unteachable may be a waste of time and emotional energy. Doling out money to someone who is irresponsible may be promoting bad character or habits. But responding to God’s promptings to give generously blesses them and us.

“When you’re kind to others, you help yourself,” (Pro. 11:17, MSG). Yes, it is more blessed to give than to receive.

I trust you are reaping the blessing of giving. Your encouragement, prayers, and gifts to Lighthouse bless us and the families we serve.

Blessing,

Deborah W. Wilson

Bible Study for Women

Ladies, it is not too late to join me and Give Yourself a Break from unreasonable expectations, difficult people, worry, regret, pressure to perform, and more. God’s rest awaits you. Evening study is in Cary, and morning study in Zebulon. Click here for more information.