In 2 Corinthians 7-9, Paul encouraged the Christians in Corinth to contribute to an offering he was collecting for the poor in Jerusalem. To spark their generosity, he reminded them that they had been made “rich in every way” so they could be “generous on every occasion.” This month’s installment of The Encourager’s Devotional Series looks ahead to Thanksgiving and focuses on blessing others out of the abundance of what God has given us. You may not always feel rich, but when you compare your blessings (both material and spiritual) to those less fortunate, you should be able to become the cheerful giver God loves.

To read this month’s devotion, click on the image below to see it full screen. Before reading it though, take a moment to write down three things you are thankful for so you can keep them in mind as you continue.

Background design is the property of Geetesh Bajaj. Used with permission. © Geetesh Bajaj. All Rights Reserved. If you would like a printer friendly version of the image in grayscale, email me at pullupachairwithlisa@gmail.com

Suggestions for planning encouragement projects this coming holiday season:

Start by cultivating a heart of thanksgiving. Take some time to write down the things for which you are thankful. Then, while you are feeling grateful for your abundance, actually plan how you will give to encourage someone less fortunate. For example …

• Thankful for your children? Contact a children’s home to see how you could be of service. Getting your own children involved is also a great way to teach them to become ministers of encouragement.
• Thankful for your husband? See if a shelter for battered women needs assistance.
• Thankful for the ability to provide food and shelter for your family? Volunteer at a homeless shelter or give to a food pantry.

In what ways do you feel blessed? How can that translate into generosity?