Can you believe that it’s November already? The leaves are changing, the weather is cooling, and our hearts are turning toward a season of thankfulness. November also brings with it another opportunity to challenge ourselves to give.
If you’re new to the 30-Day Giving Challenge, it’s really quite simple. Each day of November, find a way to give. It could be a financial gift, a gift of time, baked goods for a neighbor… anything! It’s always amazing to watch God transform our hearts as we begin to look outside of ourselves and focus on giving to others.
One of the things that I’m challenging myself to do this year is to give the gift of time. That is often the most precious gift that we can give, isn’t it? I would also like to get our daughter Emma more involved in the 30-Day Giving Challenge this year. Here are a few of the ideas that I’m hoping to use for this year’s challenge.
- Bake cookies for our church staff
- Send cards to people we don’t usually send them to
- Donate more items to the food pantry
- Take time to call people just to encourage them
- Have some friends over for dinner
- Help Emma choose some toys to donate
Most of my ideas are simple and don’t cost a lot. Giving doesn’t have to be expensive. It also doesn’t have to consume our whole day. I’ve found that just paying attention helps me to be aware of quick and easy ways to give each day. When I’m not paying attention, I tend to be more me-focused and less others-focused. That’s why I love the 30-Day Giving Challenge. Each year it helps me refocus and get my eyes back where they belong and honor God by giving to others. And honestly… what better way could there be to get ready for the Christmas season?
As we move through November, don’t forget to follow the 30-Day Giving Challenge on Facebook and Twitter (#30DayGive) to be encouraged and share your stories.
So are you in? Are you ready to give? Do you have some creative giving ideas brewing?
If you’re a blogger, feel free to link up your giving post here. If you’re not a blogger, click the Leave a Comment link and leave your ideas in the comments. Let’s share those ideas so that we can join together and give like we’ve never given before. I can’t wait to hear how God uses you to be His hands and feet!
Hi Jennifer! I have a phone call on my list too! It seems like time is one of the most precious things to give. Can’t wait to see the other ideas as the month goes along!
So glad that you’re joining us Renae! I’m excited to read your stories this month. 🙂
My family will be going through the neighborhood and cleaning up the trash from Halloween!
Oooh that’s a good idea. Thanks for joining us Karen!
This is a fantastic idea! It’s such an important lesson not only for us but for our children! And a great way to show Gods love to others. I’m in!
Yay! We’re glad to have you join us! 🙂
Tonight I’m going to counsel with my friend, her husband and their son. They’re going through a really tough time right now and I did blog about it a bit but not in any way to do with the giving challenge. I just blogged about how helping them opened my eyes in a way. I’m not sure if I’ll be super consistent with checking in all month but I’ll try.
What a great way to use your gifts! Love it! We’re glad that you’re joining us for the month.