Generous Giving During Tough Times: Spreading Hope and Love

During challenging periods, the true spirit of humanity often shines through as people come together to support one another. For many the acts of generosity can provide a glimmer of hope and a sense of unity to both the giver and the receiver. The question is how do you continue to give when you are faced with challenging times yourself?

I want to express that there are times in our lives that giving just isn’t possible. If you find yourself in a situation where all the suggestions and motivations noted in this article are not enough to allow you the ability to give, it’s ok.

First let’s explore some of the reasons why many people feel strongly about giving.

1. Expectation or sense of duty: For many people the act of giving comes from a place of expectation or a sense of duty. As Christians, we are called to give to others. There are so many examples in the Bible where we are instructed to, “not store up for yourselves treasures on earth,” Matthew 6:19, “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16. These instructions can make us feel like we have an obligation to give.
2. Personal Fulfillment: Another reason people give is from a sense of personal fulfillment. It can be very rewarding to make a positive difference in another’s life.
3. Reciprocity: If you have been privileged to experience generous giving, you may feel a sense to “pay-it-forward”.
4. Empowerment: Giving generously so that another can have an improved life can be very motivating. Knowing that your generosity is allowing another to have the ability to do something unimaginable can be very powerful
5. Compassion for others: Seeing someone in need can trigger feelings of compassion in a person. These feelings often prompt acts of generosity

Often connecting with the deep sense of why you want to give can help to motivate you into giving even when times are hard. Although the motivation itself is not always enough to be able to act generously, it can be a starting point to challenge you to find a way to give.

Now that you are reconnected with the reason why you want to be a generous person, finding the means to give can sometimes be difficult. For example, in times of financial strain, it can be difficult to find the extra funds to donate to a worthy cause. Sometimes we need to get creative and think outside the box in order to give generously. Here are a few ideas to continue your generosity:

1. Smaller monetary gifts: Sometimes even in times of financial strain we are able to come up with some funds to give by changing our habits. Maybe instead of grabbing a coffee from a restaurant, we make the coffee at home and take the couple dollars the coffee would have cost us and give it to a charity. Luke 21:1-4 reminds us that giving a little can be more impactful than giving a lot. “As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. ‘Truly I tell you,’ He said, ‘this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.’”
2. Giving generously of our time: Many organizations are struggling to find volunteers. Our time is a precious gift that can make a huge difference. When money is tight, consider giving generously of your time. Reading to a senior, cleaning your church, picking up garbage along the side of the road or volunteering at a bake sale won’t impact your financial budget but can make a huge impact on the recipient.
3. Sharing your skills: No matter who you are you have a skill that someone else is in need of. Maybe you are amazing at baking, organizing, socializing or listening. These are all skills that when given away can be impactful.
4. Acts of Kindness: Helping an elderly neighbour bring in the groceries, holding the door for someone or saying “Good morning” is an act of generosity. Never downplay the importance of being kind to another.
5. Donating goods: Many of us live with more material objects than we could possibly use. Giving these items to another home is a great way to help out. Giving away some of your goods can also be very fulfilling to yourself as well, as outer clutter can cause inner chaos!

While the above are just a sample of ideas of ways to give, we need to remind ourselves that the impact of non-financial giving can be just as significant as financial contributions.

Generous giving during hard times embodies the very best of humanity. It is a testament to our capacity for compassion, empathy, and selflessness, even in the face of adversity. From offering a helping hand to a neighbor in need, to contributing to global relief efforts, acts of generosity have the power to uplift, unite, and heal. When we embrace the spirit of generous giving during tough times, we not only assist those in need but also contribute to the creation of a more resilient, empathetic, and caring society. So, let us be the change we wish to see in the world by extending a hand of generosity and spreading hope and love wherever it is needed most.

I want to express that some of us may find ourselves at a time in our lives that giving just isn’t possible. If you find yourself in a situation where all the suggestions and motivations noted in this article are not enough to allow you the ability to give, it’s ok. You may just be in a season of receiving. Remember if no one ever needed our help there would be no point in giving generously!

Written by: Jennifer Hare, CPA

If this article has motivated you and you want more information on how to create a plan to increase your emergency savings account, please feel free to reach out to Jennifer. https://linktr.ee/financecoachjennifer