The Wealth Of Giving

Gratitude reminds us of what we have. Generosity gives us a way to share it.

Money is often measured by what it can buy, what it can save, or what it can provide for the future. But there is another way to measure its value: by what it allows us to give.

As Thanksgiving approaches and year-end giving begins, we have an opportunity to reflect not only on what we have received, but also on how we might share those blessings with others.

Gratitude and generosity belong together. When we recognize the good in our lives, we may begin to see our resources differently. Instead of focusing on what we lack or comparing ourselves with those who have more, gratitude helps us recognize what is already enough. It quiets the noise of comparison and invites us to ask a more meaningful question: What do I have that I can share?

In the New Testament, we read about a widow who placed two small coins into the temple treasury. Others gave larger amounts, but Jesus drew attention to the widow, explaining that she had given more because they contributed out of their abundance, while she gave out of her poverty (Mark 12:41–44).

Her offering was small in monetary value, yet the Savior used her example to teach a powerful lesson about giving. A gift's significance cannot always be measured by its size.

Generosity isn't reserved for those who have plenty. It doesn't require great wealth or grand gestures. Sometimes it is a financial contribution to a worthy cause. Other times, it is a meal shared with a neighbor, an afternoon spent helping someone in need, or a few minutes of encouragement offered when someone feels alone.

The widow's story reminds us that giving is not simply about how much we have. It invites us to consider the spirit in which we give and what we choose to do with what we've been given.

Research suggests that generosity can benefit the giver as well as the recipient. In a well-known study published in Science, researchers found that people who spent money on others reported greater happiness than those who spent it on themselves. Giving can remind us that our lives are connected and that even modest acts of kindness can make a difference.

This doesn't mean we must give beyond our means or measure our gratitude by the size of our contributions. Each person's circumstances are different, and generosity will look different for everyone. We can give because we care, because we appreciate what we have, and because we want to help someone else experience a little of that goodness.

Our financial resources can help us care for our families, support meaningful causes, and create opportunities for others. Thoughtful planning can help us make room for generosity while still meeting our responsibilities and preparing for the future.

This Thanksgiving, consider sharing one thing you are grateful for and one way you hope to give back in the coming year. You might choose a cause to support, volunteer your time, or begin a family tradition of giving.

Gratitude helps us recognize our blessings. Generosity gives us an opportunity to share them. And sometimes, the smallest offering—given with genuine care—can mean more than we will ever know.