Did you know that July 15 is National Give Something Away Day? National Give Something Away Day was established on July 15, 2015, by Linda Eaton Hall-Fulcher, a self-proclaimed giver. It is about recycling, giving something you no longer need to someone in need. The founder talks about giving to family, friends and those people who are just in need. Giving should be a selfless act, but the giver always receives a benefit. The benefit can be a good feeling and stretch to a thank you or even a tax benefit. What dies give something away really mean? Let’s talk about faithful giving.
What Does “Give Something Away” Really Mean?
When determining what it really means to give something away, we can turn to the Bible.
Matthew 10:8 tells us, “Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.” Let’s think about what that really means. We have received eternal life without cost. We should give in the same way. Do not expect a cost from the receiver.
It is also important to mention that giving is more than material. Giving can also be spiritual, emotional, and faith-based. Many people have material needs and basic material needs do need to be met. If you are in a position to help, you should. Know that most likely there are many more people in need of spiritual and emotional giving, Do not overlook those needs.
The World Gives Differently Than Christ Gives
The world’s idea of giving (in general) is transactional, self-serving, or image-driven. Even at the church level, most people give and expect a plaque, a tax donation statement or some public form of acknowledgement. Jesus’ model of giving is sacrificial and unconditional. If you are truly a laborer for Christ, you will see giving differently.
John 3:16 reminds us “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” That is truly sacrificial and unconditional. All we have to do is accept this gift to have eternal life. When we practice this kind of giving, we should be offering redeeming love. We need to practice giving at all times including giving love at work and in everyday life.
The Definition of True Giving
True giving is giving without expecting anything in return. This is what Jesus modeled for us. Don’t focus on what you may give in return. Focus on having a heart of a Christ-follower. Focus on servanthood and generosity. Be a cheerful giver as 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds us, “Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
Jesus provided a great example when he washed the disciples’ feet. For additional guidance, refer to Acts 20:35 , “In every way I have shown you that by hard work of that sort we must help the weak, and keep in mind the words of the Lord Jesus who himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Living as a disciple is giving without expectation of receiving. It is giving because there is a need. It is truly being a laborer for Christ.
What Can You Give Away Daily?
If you think you have nothing to give, you are mistaken. God has gifted you, even if you believe you are flawed or broken. Use the following to review what you have to offer;
- Your time: visit someone who is lonely, mentor a youth, volunteer
- Your talents: help someone with a skill you have
- Your testimony: share how faith changed your life
- Your encouragement: speak life into someone’s situation
Remember Romans 12:6–8, “Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us exercise them: if prophecy, in proportion to the faith; if ministry, in ministering; if one is a teacher, in teaching; if one exhorts, in exhortation; if one contributes, in generosity; if one is over others, with diligence; if one does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.”
You are gifted to give!
How to Give Away Your Faith in Everyday Life
So how can you give away your faith every day? Try these ideas:
- Be present and listen without judgment
- Share your story, not to convert but to connect
- Wear your faith outwardly with humility
- Use your online platforms to share Scripture, encouragement, and prayer
- Invite someone to church or a faith-based group
When you are living a faith integrated life, people will know you are a Christian. When you are living your purpose, you freely give what others need based on the talents that were gifted to you. Your actions will be both a gift an an example for other people, creating true giving.
Faith-Filled Giving Is a Reflection of God’s Grace
When we give freely, we become a mirror of God’s mercy. Meditate on Luke 6:38 , “Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.” But do remember that true, faithful giving is done without expectation of receiving. It is a fine line knowing that you will be rewarded for giving and expecting to be rewarded for giving.
Because God did create us to be givers, He multiplies what is given with a pure heart. Keep your heart pure by focusing on what is needed and how you can fulfill that need. Pray first. Listen for God’s words. Feel the nudge in your heart. Be grateful for the opportunity.
Challenge for July 15th and Beyond
I challenge you to a faith based “Give Something Away Day.” I also challenge you to give something every day. Remember, it can be a word, a smile, your time, your story, or your prayer in addition to material things. “Let us not grow tired of doing good, for in due time we shall reap our harvest, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
What can you give today without expecting anything in return? What can you give every day? Make a list and follow through with it. See the goodness you are cultivating in the world!
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