Giving of Our Bounty

Most of us have experienced hard times, when we were down and out and in dire need of a hand up. Regretfully, we often take for granted the blessings God and others share once our needs are relieved or our conflicts are resolved. However, giving doesn’t stop with receiving. If someone can’t work due to an illness or crisis, assistance may be needed for a time. Since needs are endless and times are hard, sharing is often required to fulfill those needs. Sometimes, resources and provisions are bountiful. At other times, the cupboards may be bare. In these moments, sharing is a blessing for the giver or receiver. Reciprocating resources is God’s way of supplying needs.

My husband and I have been blessed through the years by generous people. Some have shared without being asked, assisted at our request or helped without us knowing who impacted us. We could never repay all the people who have been there for us when we needed it most. But, we have tried to be grateful, pay back each loan, and pay the generosity forward.

Giving to Help Others

Many people give to others without expecting anything in return and a simple “Thank you” will suffice. Some people may resent or reject the charity, while others may expect it ungratefully, or some may find it hard to request help at all. There have always been people who abuse generosity and take kindness for granted, but those who are truly in need and appreciative of assistance will return the blessing or pay it forward when they are able.

Giving takes discernment. Meeting needs is a serious transaction to make and requires that we:

• Determine if we have something to give.
• Discern who God wants us to help.
• Decide how much and in what way we can and should help.

When we see red flags about someone or their situation and doubt what to do, that may be the clarity we need to keep us from getting involved with the wrong person at the wrong time. We must let God lead us to do what is right.

Giving to Share Blessings

Throughout the decades, generosity and giving have always been important in meeting needs. Today, it seems like the needs have grown and are greatly affecting large groups, of all ages, all at one time—physically, spiritually, mentally, emotionally and financially. Loved ones have been lost, hearts are sad, scared and stressed, paychecks are ceasing, profits are decreasing, prices are increasing and simple everyday living has become a great challenge.

It’s hard to share what we don’t have, but if we’ve been blessed with surplus in these tough and trying times, we might consider sharing. The dictionary describes bounty as:

Bounty – noun

1. : something that is given generously
2. : liberality in giving : GENEROSITY
3. : yield especially of a crop

(Merriam-Webster (Online) Dictionary – 2021)

This may be a great time to remember how we’ve received:

• Bounty from God and others
• More than we need and much of what we want
• Plenty of skills, services, supplies and smiles to share

Wouldn’t it be nice if we could all budget something to share with someone in need this holiday season?

Bring It Home

Do you know someone you could share your bounty with?

Praying for you as we grow together,

Smiles, BRC