Life's Treasures in Gift-Giving

Have you ever been so excited to give that "perfect" gift for a special person? Remember how excited you were to see them open it, to see their face light up as they see what have given? 

I really try to practice what I preach. This past Christmas holiday I intentionally made an effort to give gifts that were unexpectantly thoughtful and would be something that person would actually enjoy. I believe I succeeded on that quest! I have 3 young adult sons and 2 sons' girlfriends, and some friends to which I wanted to show appreciation for their friendship and support. My husband always says not to get him anything and he makes it extra difficult to give (that's a whole other topic right there!). Each one expressed their delight in the gift and how thoughtful I was with the gift and how it was presented!

Those gifts not only had its benefits for the recipient but it affected me, as the giver as well. 

There are many benefits in gift-giving:

• Gift-giving can be a treat to the recipient and the giver. This is called "helper's high", the release of some feel-good chemicals of serotonin and dopamine in the brain that reduces stress and depression. It makes you feel good about thinking about and giving gifts for someone you care for. Proverbs 11:25 A generous person will prosper, whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. 
• Other physical benefits include the lowering of blood pressure and it can improve the immune function and increase the longevity of life!
• The emotions also are benefitted. Having a heart of generosity improves self-confidence because it makes you feel good about doing good. Gifts given with some heart and thoughtfulness add to positive emotions. Many people have said that giving thoughtful gifts makes them happy. It is a meaningful way to communicate your appreciation and with that, the expression of gratitude strengthens the bond within the relationship. It is considered to be a "social lubricant" as it promotes cooperation and a social connection. 

2 Corinthians 9:6-8 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

It is important for the act of giving to be purely of your choice, not out of obligation, and it should be within your own capacity. In other words, you give what you can, not as an effort to out-do others. 

What you put out, you get it back (to say simply!). Goodness and generosity comes back to you when you give it out. That is, giving must be from the heart and it must be sincere. Don't do for others with the motive of getting something back in return.

Psalm 112:5 Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice. 

One note to add: Gifts aren't always measured in a tangible way. Acts of kindness and thoughtfulness can go a long way to affect others. In many cases, they mean even more. 

           

Call to action:

Look around today to intentionally search for someone to "do" an act of kindness to. I am not referring to a physical gift but a kind gesture. See how that simple act will make you feel and how it will make the other person feel. Do you recognize the benefits of the "helpers high" and the "social lubricant"? Remember the 70s song that Diana Ross sang "What the World Needs Now is Love, Sweet Love"? It may be a song or a cliche but actually it is true!

Spread some love!