Blessed to be a Blessing
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Proverbs 11:25(NIV)
I have always considered my fleshly nature to be stingy. Generosity is not a trait that flows naturally through me. As the Lord is growing me into Christ-likeness, I have begun to look for ways to be gracious and generous to others.
My kitchen is my happy place…full of light and inviting aromas. I love to plan and put a delicious meal on the table to enjoy with my family. These mealtimes have become some of my most precious memories. Recently, I have begun to share meals with others, even strangers, around our table. I’ve found that my willingness to be generous with my gifts, my time and my resources has been enriching in my own life. My generosity has opened doors allowing us to know others more fully, to be able to pray over their needs more comfortably, and to have opportunities to share Jesus more practically.
My husband and I recently took a meal to a couple who were recovering from a devastating car wreck. As we ate with them, they shared their heart-cries for their children, and we were blessed to join with them in praying for their own healing as well as their children’s needs.
The Bible tells us much about generous people:
They give and don’t hold back (Prov 21:26).
They are blessed (Prov 22:9).
They lend and their children are blessed (Ps 37:26).
They are gracious and giving (Ps 37:21).
In 1 Timothy 6:18, Paul gives young Timothy guidance in what to teach believers: Instruct them to do what is good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and willing to share. I want to be that kind of person! I want to hold loosely all the abundant things God has generously given me, so that I am free to be generous to others in His Name, for His glory.
Lord, give me a willing heart to bless others in ways that showcase Your blessing in their lives.
Jill Hardin
Unless otherwise notated, all Scripture is from the Christian Standard Bible.
