GIVING AND TRUE HAPPINESS

There is so much truth to the well known saying, "It is more blessed to give than to receive".

Before moving on to University in 1996, I had spent the previous 20 years as a volunteer - Scripture teaching, reading with children, teacher aiding and of course my children's ministry activities.

I could say, in those days it was easier to survive on one income. But no, we had our struggles. But it didn't seem to matter as much. My husband too, was always helping someone neighbours or someone at church. Then of course we had our foster children. Nothing brought more happiness to our home than children.

I hate that I now have to work for money. Oh, don't get me wrong - when my boss gave me $200 in cash the other day, I sighed with relief. "Ah, great, now we can get those few things we need."

God tells us that money is just a tool, a tool we can use to give of ourselves to others. I'd like to say my first thought was to give the money to our church. Sorry, it was gone before I thought of that. That's a discipline I still need to work on.

I know that being prosperous is not evil. In fact the few wealthy people I know have worked really hard for what they have. They are also good savers. Most of all, though, they give generously to the Lord's work. They are happy people, not because of their money, but because they have a `rich' relationship with the Lord.

"God loves a cheerful giver." 2 Corinthians 9:7

Recently I have discovered that it is not wrong to have limits on giving. Some of us give beyond our emotional resources until we burn out. Saying `no' does not always mean you are selfish. Selfishness is not giving at all. We need to enjoy our giving. Sometimes, though, God may ask us to give beyond our comfort zone, or to someone who may not seem deserving.

In these times, I think you will find the most happiness. Maybe not at the time, but later. For it is in times that we are giving as God gives - unconditionally. Often my gifts or `acts of kindness' have melted the hearts of an ungrateful person.

"Love your enemies and be good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be great. You will truly be acting as children of God, for He is kind to the unthankful and wicked." Matthew 5:44

Here is a little song I wrote years ago as a Sunday School teacher. I always like to think they would say `thank you'.

TEN MEN.

Ten men went to see Jesus

Ten men got down on their knees.

Ten men were healed by Jesus

Then they went away to tell their friends.

One man went back to Jesus

One man got down on His knees.

One man said `Thank you Jesus

For healing me from my leprosy'.

Jesus wants us to the be thankful

Jesus wants us to know He cares.

Jesus wants us to know that He loves us

And He'll be with us to the very end.

Ruth Cheater

Have a happy `giving day', and don't forget to say `THANKYOU', for those gifts given to you.