Week 2 | Day 2 | The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Command:

But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. Matthew 6:3-4 (NIV)

Read:

Even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. 1 Corinthians 10:33 (NIV)

Reflect:

“The gift that keeps on giving.” That catchy commercial phrase was meant to invoke feelings people get when they receive a present that gives enjoyment over and over versus a gift that provides that feeling once. If we’ve experienced generosity, the act of generosity in itself is the gift that keeps on giving. It’s a memory we will always remember over and over, but also triggers a chain reaction for it to continue. In my experiences with generosity, I’ve found that many times, the generous act was done without any expectation of it being returned by the giver, was done without being asked by the recipient, and was motivated by love. The root of genuine generosity is tied to loving others even if it is someone you don't even know.

At a very young age, I witnessed firsthand what generosity looks like from both my parents. They grew up poor in the Philippines. They came to America in their early 20’s to work for a better life, not for themselves, but to support their parents and siblings left behind. Shortly after arriving to America, the little they had, they shared so freely with others. Countless times, they provided a safe home for family and friends during difficult times. They comforted the grieving, and chased down every homeless person to feed, provide clothing, and necessities. Being born in America, I didn't experience extreme poverty like my parents. Yet their model of generosity is something engrained deep in my mind and my heart. I’ll always remember it and continue that legacy of love with my children.

React:

What is something that the Holy Spirit has been tugging on your heart to do, to extend generosity to someone today?

Pray:

Lord, open my eyes, heart, and mind to the needs of others around me so I can be generous with my time, treasure, and talent. Thank you, Lord, for blessing me more than I can ask, think or imagine, so I can be a blessing to someone else.