The Proverbs 31 Girl Is...Generous

You probably have something that you collect, maybe consciously, or maybe you don't even realize that you're collecting it. For me, it's books. And shoes. And more books.

The point? You probably have way too much stuff, which can be a handicap.

Proverbs 31:20 says, "She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy."

Generosity is about giving things away. This doesn't have to be physical things, either. It could be your time or a skill you know how to do.

Don't Become the Next Mrs. Scrooge
Generosity is important on many levels. First of all, there are needs. If you have the capacity to meet those needs, then they should be met.

Second, have you ever noticed how being generous makes you feel? If you give something away, it makes you feel good about yourself. It boosts your confidence and makes you happy, and that's always a plus!

Having too much stuff can become selfishness, then stinginess, and can end in you becoming the next Mrs. Scrooge. Nobody wants that.

How to Start Giving Away

• First, if your church takes an offering, make a point of putting a little bit of whatever money you earn (allowance, babysitting money, etc.) in the offering plate on Sunday. 10% is the standard amount, but a little less or more is fine. This is a good, easy way to start being generous.
• Clean out your stuff and find things that you no longer need or want. Donate it to a charity or sell it and donate the money.
• Generosity isn't limited to stuff: you can give time too. Volunteer at the homeless shelter, animal shelter, or local library. Help out around the house. Help a friend with tasks. Stay after school to help your teacher clean up the classroom. 

As you can see, it really isn't that hard to start giving away a little of your time or money.

What do you think? Do you already do any of the things above? Do you have any other suggestions? Tell me in the comments below!