Growing up, I don’t ever remember a moment where my parents didn’t take the opportunity to bless someone when they could. I’ve watched them give away cars, buy groceries for a struggling single parent, dedicate their time at local food bank and much more over the years. They always encouraged me and my sisters from a young age to do the same and I see it walked out in each one of us every day.
My middle sister, a cosmetologist, gives her time to help people feel their best. Sure, she gets paid for it, but that doesn’t take away from her using every opportunity to speak life into each person while they’re sitting in her chair. She’s also the first person to buy a hot meal or a bottle of water for the person holding a sign on the side of the road asking for help. My baby sister is always there if someone is in need. Need a dog sitter? She’s there. Having a rough day and need a hug? She’s there. You need someone to pray for you? You got it, she’s there. She’s a helper and encourager to anyone in her proximity.
It is never too early to instill generosity in a younger generation. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.” Challenging young people to give and engaging them in the impact that your ministry has on your community is part of that.
Involving children, youth, or even young adults can happen in numerous ways in your organization. Giving them opportunities to serve and dedicate their time towards local missions or teaching them to be good stewards and tithe when they get their first job or receive money for doing chores are just a couple of simple ways to do this. When you provide the environment for generosity to flourish in a generation, you let them know that they can make a difference at any age.
Building a legacy doesn’t happen in a day and you may not see an immediate increase in your giving this week from these actions. However, much like planting the seed on good ground, cultivating generosity in a younger generation lays the foundations for long term growth in The Church.
So, just like my parents did with my sisters and I, challenge your young people to give and I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
