Society consistently teaches us to take all we can, build a personal kingdom and look out for ourselves. You may have heard of “gold diggers,” women who take advantage of men to receive material gain, or “hustlers,” people who will do whatever it takes — legal or illegal — to make sure they have what they want. But the Bible encourages God’s people to have a different mindset. We are taught to be givers.
The Apostle Paul, in the book of Acts 20:35, says, “In everything, I showed you that by working hard in this manner, you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
We sometimes struggle with this way of thinking, but when you realize that the source of your supply is the creator of the world, you understand that your well never can run dry. You have been blessed to be a blessing.
You may get excited about Black Friday or Cyber Monday, but I get excited about the opportunity to give. Don’t get lost in the hype; giving is easy. It’s not about what you don’t have; it’s how you use what you have. Give a smile, a word of encouragement, a pat on the back, a compliment, a word of wisdom, etc.
The Bible says in Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure — pressed down, shaken together and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.”
In other words, you never can lose with Christ. If you give, Jesus spoke a word and says He’ll give it back to you!
While we’re navigating through the crowds, cooking huge meals, spending money we don’t have or buying toys for children who will be more excited about playing with the boxes the toys came in, remember to give the same way our Heavenly Father gave — in love.
According to John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
Through the love of God within us, let’s give. And watch the Lord pour you a blessing; you won’t have room enough to receive.

Hayes is the president
of the United Ministerial Alliance and pastor of New Day Outreach Ministry.