Most people have heard the Scripture, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20: 35b).
I have realized, though, that it is also easier to give than to receive.
The example has been set for me by parents and grandparents to share what I have with those less fortunate. Many years ago, my dad retired from a well-paying job and became the pastor of a home missions church. With barely a living salary, they were no longer able to give as they had in the past. When friends, family, and churches would provide them with groceries or funds to pay bills, it was extremely hard for my mom to graciously accept. Her pride as a giver was hurt and she was embarrassed. I remember telling her that she needed to become a more humble and grateful receiver, because when she resisted receiving she was robbing the giver of their blessing.
I am now having to take my own advice.
For most of our married life, we have enjoyed that we were able to give when we heard of a need in a family or a ministry. We truly felt blessed to be able to share what God provided for us. In the last few years, that has become increasingly difficult.
We still give when we can but grieve that we can’t do more.
The first time that we were the recipients of a Thanksgiving basket from our church, I struggled with embarrassment and even more with anger. I was supposed to be the giver not the receiver.
Then I remembered my words to my mom, and had to ask God to forgive me for my ungrateful heart and for wanting to rob someone else of a blessing because my pride was hurt.
I have learned that true giving and humble receiving are less about the gift and much more about the heart attitude of both the giver and the receiver.
So, it is now with a thankful heart that I ask the Lord to bless those that contributed to the basket we received this year. I am also thankful that we get to share that basket with a college student that will be joining us for Thanksgiving as she is unable to go home for the holiday.
Thankful to be blessed and praying to be a blessing through my heart for home!
Pam