What is the very best gift you’ve ever given? Wait, you may need to reread that. The question asks the very best gift you’ve ever given—not received.
Let’s take a moment to consider.
When you think about that experience, why did you choose to give that gift? What makes it the best gift you’ve ever given? Was it the recipient’s surprised reaction? Was it the serendipity of finding the perfect gift for someone you love? Did it have to do with you responding to the Holy Spirit and being obedient in giving? Was it about contributing to something you were particularly proud to be part of?
There are a variety of motivations for charitable giving, including:
- Altruism
- Religious (or faith) commitment
- Giving back to society
- Connection to a cause
- Affinity with others
- Recognition
- Tax benefits
There is no one motivation that governs every situation. But this we can know for sure—our heavenly Father is a giver.
“For God so loved the world that he gave” (John 3:16 NIV).
When we delight in giving, we reflect God’s character. As we grow in our walk with the Lord, may both our motivations for giving and our gifts become more thoughtful and more generous.
