OPINION:
November is National Gratitude Month. As you think about what you’re thankful for, your heart is naturally preparing for generosity — because generosity is born out of thankfulness. It’s recognizing how much God has given to us and we’re responding accordingly.
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In fact, living this out is how we truly experience God. Don’t we want that for our children? Of course, we do — we don’t want them to miss out on God’s blessings! The act of generosity is a learned skill, so we must intentionally teach our children what this looks like and how to pour God’s blessings out to others.
But what does that look like in action and how do we teach this to our children? Here are four questions to ask:
Why is it so important to teach generosity to children?
Teaching kids to give is a very important life lesson. We must teach them to humbly give their time, talent, and treasure — which ultimately shows their thankfulness of what God has given them. It’s important that we teach them that their blessings are not only for them, but they can also overflow to others. In fact, this is what God instructs us to do.
Ok, so HOW do we teach generosity to children?
First, it’s important to set an example and encourage your children to give alongside you.
Pay attention to who has a need and discuss this with your children by pointing out ways you can help. Say, “Let’s go help our elderly neighbor rake her leaves today!” Or, get your kids involved even more and ask “What do you think that person needs?” or “What would be a blessing to them?”
You might even be surprised by their answer! Remember, God already has good works prepared for our children! It’s our joy to watch passions unfold and spark something in our child’s heart that will overflow to others!
Is there an example of where this worked well?
About 12 years ago when I first got involved in Bible2School, we had a program in one of the city schools in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Our volunteers quickly noticed that the playground didn’t have a fence, which caused all of the balls to roll out into the busy street. This, of course, was also very unsafe as anyone could enter or leave the playground. We inquired about a playground fence, and the city said that it was a low priority.
So, the volunteers and their children raised money for a new playground fence to be installed. The school, the students, and their parents were thrilled! This was generosity, and the love of God, being shown and felt tangibly. All were blessed!
What kinds of things do generous people have in common?
There are two things they have in common. First, they are focused on loving others with what they have. This is such a beautiful picture of us bringing what we have to God, our Heavenly Father. Secondly, they desire to participate in God’s blessing for others. They don’t want to miss this blessing!
Relevant Bible Verses
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:21
“For God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7
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Kori Pennypacker is the CEO of Bible2School, where she oversees the mission and speaks to businesses, churches, and community leaders on the topic of the importance of spiritual training for children in our communities nationwide. She has over 20 years of experience in children’s ministry and leadership.
Bible2School equips communities across the nation to provide free elective Bible classes to elementary school children DURING their public school day. Their vision is that every public school in the nation would have a dynamic Bible program taught during their school day as allowed by national released time court rulings.
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