You've no doubt heard it said that it's more blessed to give than to receive. Though, when receiving something amazing, it doesn't seem possible to feel more joy in the giving.
It's true, though!
Even in our lack, when it seems we have absolutely nothing to give, giving brings joy to our lives.
Try it!
Seek out opportunities to give.
Don't go hog wild and steal from your family things they need to give to others. Instead, really pray about who you can give to, and what you can give. Sometimes, it means giving something we really don't need but someone else will be blessed by.
It is out of God's abundance that He shares with us, so use that model of giving to share with others and watch the joy multiply.
What do you have in abundance? Find someone who needs what you have, and give!
Do you have an abundance of time - give your time?
Do you have an abundance of health - use your strength and energy to drive someone to the doctor or errands, clean their house, watch their children, or physically help where needed.
Do you have an abundance of canned goods? Give to a canned good drive.
Do you have an abundance of smiles - Smile at everyone you see.
Do you have an abundance of money? Give.
What if you do not have an abundance of anything?
Do you have $5? Buy a gift card to a fast food restaurant, gas station, or department store. Try to forego telling yourself that it's only $5, what can $5 do?
Honestly, $5 can do a lot. It can bring joy to someone who truly needs that $5 for a meal or for a gallon or two of gas or socks or whatever. It means more than you can probably imagine.
If nothing else, the very gesture of giving is a two-way street. It brings awareness to the receiver that someone really is thinking of them, and it brings joy to the giver knowing that you have put a smile in someone's heart.
Is joy something you can muster up all by yourself? I really don't think so. I really believe that true joy is only found when we are in the presence of God. The Bible says:
You will make known to me the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy;
In Your right hand there are pleasures forever. Psalm 16:11
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