So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. — 2 Corinthians 9:7
There’s no denying that during the holidays, people seem to be more generous, spreading kindness and goodwill in tangible ways. For example, one of my neighbors organized “Bless a Waiter/Waitress Day.” She invited all the neighbors to meet at a particular restaurant and bless the person who would be our server that morning. Those who could make it shared in such a joy-filled morning. Our waiter was a man from Ecuador and cried when he received an envelope full of much needed money to support his family.
The holidays are proven to be a difficult time for people, so why not make it a time to practice kindness and generosity? Generosity is more than just an action; it’s a reflection of the heart. Being a cheerful giver, as in our verse today, means giving with joy, free from reluctance or obligation, because we recognize the value of serving others.
When we think of others’ needs before our own, we align our lives to reflect Jesus. Not only does this bless those around us, but it also does a work in us—helping us break free from selfish tendencies and experience the deep fulfillment of living out true Christlikeness. True generosity isn’t about the size of the gift; it’s about the spirit behind it.
Make it a goal to practice generosity and kindness every day — even beyond the holidays. We’ve listed 30 ideas (a month’s worth) to get you started.
Pray for people.
Call someone you haven’t talked to in a long time just to check in.
Shovel snow, or mow grass, or plant flowers for an older neighbor or single mom.
Donate unused books to a literacy program, school, or library.
Offer free babysitting to a parent that could use a break.
Write kind notes and leave them in random places.
Keep water and snacks in your car to give to people in need.
Keep blankets and new socks in your car to give to people in need.
Write a handwritten note to someone who has made a difference in your life.
Give a generous tip.
Buy groceries for the person in front of you.
Give someone flowers.
Smile at people and say “hello.”
Give out cold drinks for construction workers and those working outside on hot days.
Make a loved one breakfast in bed.
Stay connected to a hurting soul.
Leave laundry detergent tied with a ribbon, a note of love, and a bag of quarters at a laundromat.
Bring coffee or tea to the staff at your child’s school.
Mail a gift card to someone going through a rough season
Leave an encouraging note on a car windshield in the parking lot.
Mentor a young adult.
Pay the bill for a family with young kids at a restaurant.
Talk to the person sitting all by themselves at church, in the lunchroom, or at a party.
Invite someone over for dinner and provide wonderful food.
Volunteer at a local organization.
Draw encouraging messages in chalk on the sidewalks around your neighborhood.
Make and send care packages to soldiers serving overseas.
Support a missionary.
Do someone else’s chores at home.
Sell something you own and donate the proceeds.
God Bless You,
Carole
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