“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38 ESV

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV

I think we all know what it means to give to others. You can give your mom a card you made for her. You can give your brother one of your toys to play with. You can give your dad a high five. You can give your teacher a smile. You can give your friend a compliment on her new blouse.

But you can also give things like your time. Take time to listen to a friend’s problem or sit with someone who is lonely. You can use kind words to encourage someone or hug someone who is sad. Maybe you have a special talent that you can share with someone.

Now that we’ve talked about giving. Do you know what the word “generously” means? If you said it means to give a lot. You are right! Generously means to give more than is expected or needed.

In our first verse Jesus is speaking to His disciples, a huge group of followers, and us! Jesus says we should give to others in need and when we do, we also will receive.  As an example, your friend is having trouble with his math homework, and you stop doing yours and offer to help him. You are giving him your time and skills in math. The next day you are having trouble understanding your science questions and the friend you helped yesterday, helps you with science today. You gave and you received!

Our second verse is written by Paul to the church in Corinth, and us. Paul’s advice is to give what we have decided in our hearts to give, not because we have to, or we give but in our heart we really don’t want to give. Paul tells us that “God loves a cheerful giver,” someone who gives because they want to help another person. As an example, your mom asks you to watch your baby sister for 15 minutes while she talks to a neighbor. You have choices. Do you give your time and watch your baby sister for your mom or not? Do you do it generously and cheerfully or do you complain and only do it reluctantly?

This week talk with your parents about giving generously to others. Decide together what things you might do for someone you know. Can you give your time, your talents, your kindness, and your encouragement? Decide and look for opportunities to give generously to others in need. And be ready to receive generous blessings!

Blessings and joy and you give generously and receive!