2 Corinthians 9:6-8 – Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed.

We reap what we sow. God loves a cheerful giver. These are familiar words to almost everyone. It is important as Christians that we live them to the fullest. Tithing is great, but the fact is there are so many other ways to give that do not involve finances. Have you checked on your neighbors recently? Do you even know who they are? We can learn so much when we actually meet them. “That empty lot down the block is shamefully overgrown.” So hop on your rider and mow it. Maybe the owner has some physical or financial problems that prevent him from doing it himself. Plant flowers at the school or church (Get permission first!). Drop off some jigsaw puzzles or board games at the seniors’ center or nursing home. Bring candy or cookies to the nurses’ station at the hospital, or to the fire, EMS or police station. There are so many simple ways to bring a ray of sunshine into others’ lives, and when we do, our day shines brighter, too. Only God knows what hidden benefits we might receive in return, although that, of course, should never be what drives us. His plan is to bless us so much that the blessings are packed down tight and still overflow. Now there’s some reaping worth sowing for!