In All CircumstancesSýnishorn

Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 

Teaching your child how to live a generous life can be a difficult task. In our human nature, we tend to be selfish and self-centered. A child is no different. It is no coincidence that one of the first words of a child is “mine."

Begin teaching your child generosity from a young age. One way to instill this life principle in your child is to exhibit generosity yourself. Being generous with your time, money, and talents is something that you will need to train yourself to do. It does not come naturally to most of us. 

Ask yourself a few questions :

- Do I think of others before myself?

- Do I put other’s needs before my own? 

- When I see a friend or family member struggling, do I reach out to help or do I just say, “I’ll pray for you”? 

- Is it hard for you to be generous with your money towards others?

The answers to these questions might help you determine where your heart is in the area of good deeds and generosity. We can all work towards being more generous, but first we must be aware of where we stand. 

Start your day today thinking of others. Run through your list of friends and lift them up in prayer to your Heavenly Father. Ask God to open your eyes to those around you in the car pool line, checkout line at the grocery store, or even your neighbors. Is there a need someone has in their life that you could offer a generous act of love and kindness towards? It could be as simple as a sincere smile.

Father,

I pray that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit and Your love today. God, You love people beyond measure, and I seek to have that kind of love in my heart for others as well. I also want to teach my children how to live a loving, generous life towards others. Teach me Your ways.