The Gift of Giving
“Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”
Proverbs 11:25
Generosity
The Bible is filled with generosity - God’s generosity towards us and his people’s generosity towards other people. Each time a gift is given out of love, both the giver and receiver are filled with joy. Isn’t it amazing how that works?
But how often do we look for ways to brighten others’ days in the midst of our own crazy lives? How often do we give freely without expecting something in return? For me, the story I’m about to share with you all was a wake up call. A wake up call to the gift of giving. I hope it inspires you as much as it did me!
Sharing the JOY
Several weeks ago, I received an email from one of our Genesis community members that absolutely made my day. This individual wanted to purchase several Genesis Boxes to be gifted to people who were not expecting them and could use some encouragement. Together, we brainstormed potential receiving organizations - nursing homes, hospitals, churches, centers for women, … the list went on and on.
I made several calls and sent a few emails; then, I waited. Several days went by with no response. I had hoped to deliver the boxes on Saturday, since I would be leaving town the next day. So, on Saturday afternoon, I placed one more call to a hospital. I was transferred to the hospital’s house supervisor. She was beyond excited when I shared about Genesis’ heart for the world and the amazing contents within the box. I asked if she’d be willing to accept the gift of Genesis Boxes and received a delighted yes!
Within the hour, I had driven to the hospital and met the house supervisor face-to-face. She explained that the year had been extremely tough on nurses, and several had left. A surprise gift box, given to them during nurses week (a complete coincidence on my end - way to go God!!), was just what they needed to lift their spirits.
Life Enriched
The next morning, I awoke to a text from the House Supervisor. Here is what she said:
“Thank you so much for the beautiful gifts. So many nurses were blessed by the generosity you shared and were so excited to learn about all the lovely women involved in making the gifts. Truly couldn’t have been better timing! I gave 2 boxes each to 10 different nursing departments. Some departments split the gifts right away and a few were saving them to give as one big special gift to recognize one nurse in their unit. Thank you so much for thinking about us, we adore the boxes and the special meaning and story behind each gift inside💗”
The beautiful thing about giving is that the giver’s life is enriched just as the receiver’s life is enriched. Our generous community member gave us, the Genesis team, the most amazing gift - not only did he support our business and our artisan partners, but also he allowed us to be a vessel to show kindness and love to others. Receiving the house supervisor’s thank you meant the world to him, and it meant the world to our team, as well.
How amazing is it that God designed our hearts to fill with JOY upon giving to others? Each gift has a ripple effect. The impact is tremendous.
Prompt of the Spirit
Today, I want to encourage you to find something you cherish. Thank God for giving it to you for a season (James 1:17). Now pray to the Giver of all things, and ask Him who He’d like you to give it to. Wait, and listen for His still, small voice. He will lead you to the person who needs it most.
I hope you feel as excited as I do to love on someone else today through giving! I truly believe that you both will be blessed through the process.