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Be a Giver

   What makes you feel like you have money?  A fat savings account?  The ability to buy something?  I'll never forget the conversation I had with my oldest daughter, Tabitha, when she was only in her twenties. I was comparing my husband's tendency to stash money away, versus my tendency to spend.  I said that I feel like I have money when I can use it for things I want and need, and he feels like he has money when he has a cushion to fall back upon.
     Then, she said something that took me aback.  She said that she felt like she had money when she was able to give. Ouch!  While part of me enjoys giving, there is, if I'll be honest, a part of me that doesn't want to.  There is a part of me that gets annoyed at even the requests.
      Just now, I wrote out a check to support Prison Fellowship in reaching out to children whose parent is in prison, by providing a summer camp experience.  Why would I want to do that?  Because, I think summer camp can be a very positive thing for any child.  My children had the privilege, and I want others to have it as well. 
      Sometimes, I give out of compassion.  Sometimes, I give because it seems like money well spent.  Sometimes, I give out of gratefulness for God's provision for me.  And sometimes, sadly, I give because I "have to".  No, no one is going to come knocking on my door, forcing me to do so, but God commands us to give to His work and to others less fortunate.
        And so, today, my tip is give.  Give because there are needs in the world.  Give because God commands it.  Give as an expression of gratefulness to God. 

If you give to others, you will be given a full amount in return. It will be packed down, shaken together, and spilling over into your lap. The way you treat others is the way you will be treated. 

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