Giving On a Day People Least Expect

August is my birth month. My birthday was my day. A special day set aside just for me. Something changed on my 45th birthday. We lived in New Hampshire. My husband was out of work, money was tight. My husband was sad because he could not get me a birthday present. We rarely exchange gifts anyway. I had a long talk with God about this whole gift giving idea. A person should never feel pressured to give a gift. I continued my conversation with my Abba as I drove to the grocery store. While in line, I noticed the woman in front of me as she fumbled through her purse. She did not have enough money and looked embarrassed. I’ve been in that same situation and I usually put items back. “Here, take this.” I handed a ten-dollar bill to the young man at the cash register. It was the rest of our food budget after I purchased the items in my cart. “No! I can just put the ice cream back” the woman said without making eye contact. “Not the ice cream, it’s my birthday today, the best present I could get is to buy Ice Cream for someone else.” The words came out before I could stop them. “Happy Birthday!” The young man at the register and the woman said in unison. “Thank you! Now, you would not want to deny me this present on my birthday would you?” I loved the confused looks on both of their faces as the woman walked away, with her groceries, including the ice cream. I purchased my groceries and headed home. Joy filled my heart and I thanked God for the wonderful Birthday gift. I shared the story with my husband and son. “From now on I am going to give on my birthday. The gift I get in return is far more precious than anything money can buy!” I rarely tell anyone I do this. I am not trying to promote myself or get an atta girl. But, how can I keep such a wonderful blessing from you? I want to challenge you to give on your birthday. Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35 (ESV) The best part—don’t tell anyone you are doing it. What an amazing secret between you and God. I know many of you already give to the poor and needy. God sees that.

Will you go one step further?

Will you join me and give on a day people least expect?

All the Glory goes to God!

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