One person is lavish yet grows still richer; another is too sparing yet is the poorer. Whoever confers benefits will be amply enriched, and whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11:24-25

This is the great paradox of giving: The more you give, the more you have. People are not honored for what they have received or even earned, but rather for what they have given to others, for what they have given away.

Studies show that people who volunteer their time, donate money, and are emotionally available and giving in relationships are usually happier and less depressed. However, being generous demands a lot of practice and we need to overcome certain obstacles. Very often, we are so occupied with ourselves that we do not even think about others. Proverbs tells us it is in our own best interest not to be solely concerned with ourselves and our wants and needs.

Pray today for the grace to be generous and to identify the opportunities to be generous.