The happiness that comes from giving

"It was a time when I only cared about myself and my family," said a woman in her fifties. "I thought so."

The phone was on a table in her New York apartment and she could hardly believe it. He met this woman as a generous person who really cared about others. When he looked at his bright face and wide smile, he could not imagine that he had ever been a selfish person. She knew of her current happiness and commented: "You probably have not been happy before." "I was not happy," he replied quickly. "I did not know better." What has changed

This woman, like many others, was helped to change her perspective by studying the Bible. He learned that the key to happiness is a selfless gift. Today she is convinced of the truth of Jesus' words: "There is more happiness in giving than in receiving."

It is a proven and true command. Jesus Christ himself experienced this and could therefore explain it without reservation. As God's first spirit son in heaven, he had far more wealth than any other creature could enjoy. I had everything. But on earth he lived in poverty. In this capacity, however, he opened great spiritual wealth and the possibility of eternal life for mankind. "Even though he was rich," the apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, "he became poor for you so that through your poverty you could become rich."

The Son of God found true joy in what he did. Regarding his attitude, he announced: "To do your will, my God, I was happy and your law is within me." Heb. 10: 7-9.

Those who know Jesus Christ by following his example feel the same joy or happiness to serve the interests of those around them. Why?

On the other hand, using your own skills, strengths and time to help others has a positive effect on a person's attitudes. He is so busy doing things for people that he does not care about the ruthless actions of others. When you see people happy with their altruistic gifts, your happiness increases. Instead of causing discomfort, all the malice and selfishness that others show you really feel sorry for them. You know you are losing the deep joy of making others happy.

Expressing a person's generosity often also has a positive effect on the recipients' attitudes, making them aware of the happiness that comes with giving. Their hearts can also be generous. The words of Jesus Christ reinforce this fact: “Practice the gift and people will give it to you. They will pour a subtle measure over your knees, squeezing, shaking and overflowing. Because with what you measure, they measure you. "- Luke 6:38.

The generous person thus becomes the object of the generosity of others. Your generosity will benefit you in times of need. And people will be more likely to give full measurement. When the contents are "crushed and shaken", its container becomes, so to speak, full of good things that can overflow.

Yes, the selfless deserve a place in the care of being so grateful. That's because it does not just do what justice demands. You want to help others and work generously for them. For such a good man, says the apostle Paul, "does anyone dare to die?"

Those who practice generosity are especially happy to know that Jehovah God is pleased with his manner. Although people do not always appreciate what he does, the Most High does not forget him. "God loves the lucky donor." (2 Corinthians 9: 7) He does not leave the individual without payment. Jesus Christ said, “When you give gifts, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing so that your gifts will be kept a secret. then your father, who sees in secret, will pay you. ""

However, if the right motivation is lacking, it will not bring happiness. This is why the Christmas gift so often does not encourage joy. Although there are exceptions, many people only exchange gifts out of a sense of duty and feel obligated to do so. You may not have the sincere desire to give to make someone else happy.

Doesn't it strike you as strange that a feast regarded as a tribute to Jesus so often falls on the mind of the Christian donor? But is it really a surprise? In fact, customs that emphasize the celebration of Christmas originate from sources unrelated to the Son of God. Press Releases for Mobile, Alabama:

The Christmas celebrations probably dated back to the Roman feast of Saturnalia from December 17 to 19 and honored Saturn, the seed god. It was an occasion for joy, celebration and the exchange of gifts. The temples were decorated with greenery and flowers. Public affairs could not be conducted, courts were closed, schools were on vacation, criminals could not be punished, and war was not declared. 

It is not the type of gift that has been associated with the pagan Saturnalia, but rather the selfless gift that gives a rich reward. This is one reason that led many honest people to stop exchanging gifts by the standards of the ancient Romans. You will find great joy in spontaneous expressions of generosity on occasions other than Christmas time. Do you feel the joy of giving?

If not, prove the truth in Jesus' words about it. Strive to cultivate a persistent and selfless concern for the well-being of others and see for yourself that even now the result can be a richer and happier life.