This is the season indeed … for receiving requests for support from every imaginable charity and non-profit cause. In his “Handsome Is as Handsome Gives” WSJ article, Arthur C. Brooks says those that give are happier, healthier and even better looking than those that don’t. The claims are impressively backed up by a number university surveys and various research initiatives.
One statement that really got my attention referenced a report that “found that altruistic teenagers are physically and mentally healthier late in their lives than their less generous peers.” I make no assumptions on causality but there is evidence of direct benefit from involving your kids in giving more than receiving. In the spirit of the popular “Advent Conspiracy”, I encourage you to review your giving this Christmas and discuss potential changes as a family.
Tips for the season:
- Involve your kids in charitable giving as a family and have a dialogue on why you support certain charities or causes.
- Engage the whole family in a service project of some kind – serving food to the homeless, reaching out to a neighbor in need or joining a work project.
- Keep giving generously – non-profit causes typically receive nearly half their funding during this season. If you are led to support Faithful Fathering, thank you.
Even during the Great Recession, Americans still give away more than the entire gross domestic product of prosperous countries such as Israel and Denmark! That reflects well on this one nation under God. As you reflect cheerful giving in your home, the kids will catch what you’ve got and you will be a hero in their eyes.
The Word on Giving – “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:6-7. Paul provided the foundation for Mr. Brooks’ article - a Biblical truth that researchers have now proven empirically.
Prayer guide: Lord, thank You for the many gifts and blessings in my life. Enable me to discern well between wants and needs, that I may give generously from the heart in a way that glorifies You during this season and throughout the year. Amen.
Click on comment to share ways your family practices charitable giving.
