At Christmastime out thoughts go to gifts we will give, and gifts we will receive. Being generous is part of living a happy and fulfilled life! Giving takes the focus off ourselves and causes us to consider what someone else might consider special or valued. As a bonus, giving empowers both the giver and the receiver!

Fortunate that 2023 has been a prosperous year? Go ahead, feel empowered and give generously with gifts to others, extra donations to charity, and yes —go ahead— spend a little on yourself. For many, however, it may have been a difficult year and money is short. So how can we be generous without spending money?

Be Generous with Your Time
Determine to build new relationships
Help out a neighbor 
Volunteer at a charity or cause
Spend time with someone who is lonely
Visit the sick or a shut-in
Offer to drive someone to the airport

Be Generous with Your Things
Share any surplus you may have 
Lend out a tool, mower, or yard game
Take food to a shut-in or needy family

Be Generous with Your Words
Always give thanks and show appreciation
Offer words of encouragement when needed
Express love and hope
Always speak positively, especially with children
Offer sincere compliment
Put others before yourself

When we give advice in areas in which we are experienced, we are being generous with our talents and skills. When we accept the generosity of others, we are also being generous. When we’re wrong, admit it. Apologize with sincerity. Be a good sport. Be patient. Be kind.

We are also being generous when we don’t gossip, judge, condemn or embarrass others. 

As we welcome our Savior into the world, it’s a good idea to take a minute to thank the Lord for His generosity shown to us through the saving grace of His Only Son.

Merry Christmas from all of us at the Stewardship Foundation.