.....giver

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver 2 Corinthians 9:7

A tired homemaker opened the front door of her home to find a young minister from the neighborhood who said, "I'm collecting donations for the new children's home we're building. I hope you'll give what you can."

"I’ll be happy to," said the exhausted woman, "I'll give you two boys, two girls, or one of each." The tired homemaker in that story had a generous spirit — just not in the way the young minister expected! Her response was humorous, but it reflects a deeper truth: giving can sometimes feel more like a burden than a joy, especially when we feel overwhelmed.

We all want to be generous, but sometimes life is exhausting, and we feel like we don’t have much left to give. Whether it’s taking care of a home, working hard, or simply managing daily struggles, life can leave us feeling drained.

But here’s the good news: God sees your efforts, and he values every little act of kindness you give, even when it doesn’t feel like much. Even small acts of kindness — a smile, a word of encouragement, a listening ear — can make a big impact in the hands of God.

So, if you’re feeling worn out today, take heart. Remember that God sees your efforts. He isn’t asking you to give what you don’t have — he’s simply inviting you to give what you can, and trust him to do the rest.

- alan smith

Lord, help me to have a generous spirit. Sometimes I feel like I have nothing left to give. Help me to see the little ways I can bless others and to trust that as long as I give from a place of love with a cheerful heart, you will use it for good. In Jesus’ name, amen.