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December 2004 |
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"If it is important for us to practice, then it is an important legacy for us to pass on to our children."
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When you mention lists this holiday season, "to-do" and "wish" lists come to mind, but how often do you think of a "meet-a-need" list? Though giving is definitely needed during the holidays, wouldn't it be great to maintain that generosity throughout the whole year? There is no question that the Bible talks a lot about giving. Students must grasp certain things in order for them to understand the concept of giving. First of all, everything belongs to God. The Bible says that EVERY perfect gift comes from above (James 1:17). Second, since God owns everything, what we have is actually loaned to us. What we do with these things will determine the blessing we receive from giving. That is why it is so important for our teens to see parents modeling sacrificial giving. How can you jumpstart giving in your family? Here are some suggestions. First, teens need to be involved in the family giving process. Does your teen know to whom you give? Once they are involved, they will take ownership. Second, teens can give their time and energy in acts of service. Take your kids with you to deliver a meal to a needy family or visit a nursing home. Third, since your teen is old enough to have money of their own (whether from allowance or employment), train them to give regularly and generously to the church. Fourth, above and beyond church giving, give your teen chances to give voluntarily to projects that excite them. Expose them to foreign missionaries, local ministries, and people in need. Explain that they are free to give where the Lord leads them. If it is important for us to practice, then it is an important legacy for us to pass on to our children. Let's remember this season to model, teach, and make a lifetime practice of giving, in whatever form, to the Lord...it helps our teens, others, us and the Kingdom eternally.
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Here are five practical suggestions to teach your teen to give cheerfully:
1. Model a thankful heart, as you express aloud your thankfulness for God’s provision of your family’s daily needs.
2. Explain what the Bible teaches about tithing, and show teens how they can figure their own tithe.
3. Explain how money is used when it is given to the church.
4. Participate in ministry and missions opportunities as a family so your children can see their tithes at work.
5. When God provides for your family in unexpected ways in times of crisis, call attention to His faithfulness by having a special time of prayer and thanksgiving.
(lifeway.com)
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Where is your money going? Here are some interesting polls about spending.
Do you regularly give to your local church?
Every paycheck - 84.35%
Sometimes - 13.21%
Christmas and Easter only - 0.2%
Never - 2.24%
family.org
Has economic instability changed your plans for gift giving this Christmas season?
Yes, I will be spending less. -60%
No, I will be spending about the same -37%
No, I plan to spend more. -3%
christianitytoday.com
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* Statistics show that approximately 20% of Christians tithe. (bible.com)
