March 3
Learning to
Give Freely
“One person gives freely but gets even richer. Another person doesn’t give what they should but gets even poorer.”
Proverbs 11:24, NIrV
Ollie glanced at the new pair of designer sneakers in his closet and the sleek smartwatch on his wrist. He loved treating himself; after all, he worked hard and deserved nice things. His wife, Cassie, was less impressed.
“Ollie,” she said one evening, setting the table for dinner, “the washing machine’s broken again. We need to get it fixed soon.”
“I know, Cassie,” Ollie replied absentmindedly, scrolling through his phone, “but can’t it wait until next month? I’ve got my eye on a new pair of headphones.”
Cassie sighed. She didn’t want to argue, but this was a familiar pattern. Ollie seemed to have no problem spending money on himself, but when it came to shared expenses or things she needed, there was always a delay.
One weekend, they visited Cassie’s friend Serena, who had just had a baby. As Cassie helped Serena in the kitchen, Ollie overheard a conversation between Serena and her husband, Craig. Craig mentioned how they had saved for months to buy a stroller and baby supplies, even sacrificing things they wanted for themselves.
“Why do you do that?” Ollie asked Craig, genuinely curious.
Craig shrugged with a smile. “Because it’s not just about us anymore. Giving to others—especially those you love—brings a joy that no new gadget can match.”
Ollie laughed it off, but the words stuck with him. Later that night, as he scrolled online for his next purchase, he paused. The washing machine’s repair popped into his mind, followed by Cassie’s tired expression.
The next morning, Ollie surprised Cassie. “I’ve called the repair guy for the washing machine,” he said. “He’ll be here tomorrow.”
Cassie’s face lit up. “Thank you, Ollie. That means so much to me.”
As the week went on, Ollie began noticing how his small gestures of generosity impacted Cassie. She seemed happier, more relaxed. He realized that his reluctance to give freely had created unnecessary tension.
A few days later, while watching a video about life lessons, a verse popped up on the screen: “One person gives freely but gets even richer. Another person doesn’t give what they should but gets even poorer” (Proverbs 11:24).
Though Ollie wasn’t religious, the verse struck a chord. It wasn’t just about money—it was about the richness that came from relationships and giving selflessly.
That evening, he turned to Cassie. “I’ve been thinking. I want to start doing better—for us, not just for me. Let’s figure out how we can both enjoy life and take care of each other.”
Cassie smiled, tears in her eyes. “I’ve been praying for this moment. Thank you, Ollie.”
Prayer:
Thank You for teaching us the beauty and power of giving freely.
Help us to see that true wealth is not in the things we own but in the love and joy we share with others.
Lord, soften our hearts so we may recognize the needs of those around us, especially those closest to us.
Teach us to let go of selfishness and to find fulfillment in serving others.
May we trust in Your provision as we give generously, knowing You bless those who share their blessings.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
