Now that Black Friday and Cyber Monday have come and gone, it’s time to set our sights on those who could use the resources we are so fortunate to have. While #GivingTuesday is primarily about donating money to a worthy cause, you don’t have to skip out just because you’re out of cash. Check out all the ways you can give below.
Lately articles about American’s having too many possessions have been trending. The consensus is we are not a country lacking in material goods. Why not give back by gifting your stuff to someone who needs it more than you do? Homeless shelters, pregnancy centers, and thrift stores such as Goodwill and Salvation Army are great places to give. Did you know you can even donate unused flight points? Read more about that here.
Volunteer at soup kitchen. Babysit for a single parent. Go for a walk or out to coffee with someone who seems lonely. Find more volunteer opportunities at your local church or do a search at ChristianVolunteering.org.
What unique talent do you have? Are you an artist? Volunteer to paint for your church or someone elderly or disabled. Are you musical? Go caroling at an old folks home. Good with words? Write and share a blog post about what God’s been teaching you. Remember, God gave you your talents so you could bless others with them.
Maybe you don’t have much money, but remember the widow in the Bible who gave two coins while the rich men around her were giving way more? In Luke 21:3-4 (KJV), Jesus tells us, “…this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.” You don’t have to give a lot to make a difference. Jesus cares most about what is in your heart.
Multiply your efforts by getting others to join you in any of the above ways. Think about the incredible impact you could have on your community by getting a group together to give and/or volunteer.
However you end up giving today, remember that to give is to receive, and you will be blessed by your sacrifice. Happy #GivingTuesday!