As a child, your parents probably told you that it was better to give than to receive. While it may not have been what you wanted to hear at the time, you have probably since come to realize how very true that statement is. It is definitely enjoyable to receive gifts, but this joy cannot compare with the joy you feel when you give to others. Whether you give of your time, your physical resources, or your finances, you know just how important it is to give to others.
In today’s post, we’ll take a look at a few reasons that illustrate the importance of giving. At Encounter Church in Denver, we value giving and are always looking for ways to bless those in the community around us. If you would like to visit our non-denominational church or are interested in learning more about our outreach opportunities, then please call our church office today.
Giving Benefits Others
There are many things that everyone struggles with on a regular basis, some more than others. You can never truly know what another person is struggling with just by looking at them. When you make it a priority to give, you help someone else in a very tangible way. Whether you choose to spend time listening to them, share gently used items, or donate money, your act of giving will help to brighten what may be a dark time in their life, and remind them that there are kind people in this world.
Giving Promotes Giving
There is something very powerful about being on the receiving end of giving. Not only do you feel humbled and thankful by what you have received, but you feel inspired to pay it forward. Words cannot quite express just how wonderful it feels to give to another person and know that your act of kindness has made a big difference in their life. We are wired to value the lives of others, and we feel most fulfilled when we take time to pour blessings into another’s life.
Giving Feels Good
This may sound like a selfish reason to give, but when you give from pure motives, there is nothing wrong with the feelings that come as a result. Mowing a neighbor’s lawn, shoveling snow for an elderly friend, or baking dinner for someone who is sick not only make an impact in their lives, but it makes you feel good to know that you did something that helped them out.
Giving Sets an Example for Others 
One of the best ways to teach your children about the importance of giving is to lead by example. It is true that a picture is worth a thousand words, and your act of kindness will speak volumes to your children about the importance of giving. An easy way to get your children involved is to have them help you bake cookies for someone who has just moved into the neighborhood or to invite a friend to the water park for the day. Your child will begin to understand how good it feels to show kindness to others, which will prompt them to follow the example you have set in your own life.
At Encounter Church in Denver, we enjoy giving to those in our church, our community, and others around the world. We support missionaries in more than 25 countries, donate food and personal goods to the Orchard Road Food Bank, and assist in a number of other outreach programs. If you are interested in learning more about the variety of service programs in which our non-denominational church participates, then please call today and find out how you can get involved!