GIVING by Sheree Booker

There are many ways to support and work uplifting others and changing their lives for the better. Often when we think of giving, we think of money or finances. We think of giving during the holiday season, like Thanksgiving or Christmas.  We can help in many other ways: time, talent and treasure. God's grace motivates generosity in his people for the purpose of glorifying God. We must give generously, cheerfully according to what you have decided in your heart. Not to give out of guilt, or pressure, but to give gladly. True givers give without expecting anything in return. 

Giving is a gift not many people are blessed with it. The gift to give when you do not have much yourself. To provide something for someone, when you are lacking.  To share your last knowing that God will provide. The gift of giving is also followed by favor. Favor is far better than anything else that we could receive. Favor open doors that otherwise would be closed. Favor can put you in the heart or mind of man to be excelled to heights that otherwise you would not be able to reach. 

So open your hand and heart and give. If your hand is closed, how can you receive? Luke 6:38 states, "Give and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to your in return. Remember, for God so loved the world He gave His only begotten son. He did not send, He gave. 

God grants us so much so that we can share with our fellow man. Everything that we have is a gift from God. What do we have that we did not receive? Our generosity in giving is a demonstration of God's character and a response to what He has done for us. Christians are the light of the world and as we become more of who God called us to be, we began to reflect God more. We become more loving, gracious, and more giving. Generosity not only points others to God, but it is a response to what God has done for us. 

Giving has a positive effect on human relationships. "It is more blessed to give than to receive-" Acts 20:35. Not only does giving demonstrate our character to the world, but declares that our faith does not depend on material possessions. When you give, you lose nothing. Giving can be money, time, prayers, love, hope, faith, anything that is of God's will and helps or benefit our fellow man. So remember, do not give out of pride, greed, or pressure, but out of Love. God will take care of the rest.