Thanksgiving has come and gone. I know I'm not alone in the feeling of disappointment after it's over. Birthdays, holidays, and other special events come and go, and for me, I usually build it up so much in my head that after it's over, there's a little bit of emptiness or dissatisfaction. I think part of it, at least with Thanksgiving, is because we go from this one day of “thankfulness” to Black Friday deals and all about consumerism. Then on Monday, we have Cyber Monday, to squeeze a little more out of our wallets and find those “once in a lifetime” deals.
This week’s prayer guide is all about Generosity. That feeling I felt of dissatisfaction or emptiness after Thanksgiving is because I focused on myself and my own expectations. I felt drained and empty. The Bible teaches that we should look to others’ needs. That we will be refreshed if we are generous. That we should give generously. Read the verses below and allow Jesus to speak to you and then we will pray.
"Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too."Philippians 2:4
"The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed." Proverbs 11:25 NLT
"You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. 'For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.'” 2 Corinthians 9:7 NLT
Dear Father, Thank you for setting the example of what generosity looks like. You sent your Son, as a gift to the world. Jesus you did not come to be served, but to serve. You came as a servant of others and lived the most generous life to show us how we should live. Jesus this week help me to be more like you. Lord help me to be generous with what you have given to me. You have given me talents, skills, experiences, and financial resources not to use for my own personal benefit, but to benefit others.
Forgive me in those moments where I have been focused on myself. Help me to see others through Your eyes, help me to see needs as I go about my day this week. Help me to be generous with my time, my smile, my encouraging words, my talents, abilities, and my financial resources. Holy Spirit fill me with your spirit of generosity and to see the countless opportunities around me where I can make a difference in my community and world!
AMEN
While this was written to encourage you to spend time with Jesus and pray, we did want to take a minute to show you some tangible ways to be generous this week. Below are some opportunities:
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Giving Tuesday -
There’s a worldwide movement called Giving Tuesday and their whole goal is to spread generosity after Black Friday “Holiday”. We have partnered with them for the past few years and we encourage you to check them out. You can give to our church as a part of Giving Tuesday or you can look at the many different ways you can be generous, not just with your financial resources, on their website.
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Reverse Advent -
The Reverse Advent project will help local families with food basics this holiday season. Pick up a daily list along with a bag today! Our Advent List is designed to add one item a day to the bags, allowing us to all be grateful for the opportunity to GIVE on a daily basis. Advent Bags should be returned to your campus on December 12 and we will distribute to our local schools! Learn More
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HFKidz Angel Tree -
We want you to join us! We’ve partnered with multiple organizations in sharing the love of Jesus this year. To participate, click the link. Learn More
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Difference Maker -
Difference Makers embrace going ABOVE + BEYOND to help grow the Kingdom of God. The Great Commandment: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart...soul and...mind... ...Love your neighbor as yourself...” Matt. 22:37-40 Learn More
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Volunteer at Highlands -
One of the best ways to make Highlands Home is to volunteer your time. You'll make an eternal impact and meet lots of great people while doing it. Learn More