My previous post, Altruistic Activities for Each Month of the Year, listed ideas for adding value to other people’s lives. This list highlights the unsought benefits that add to your own!
This kind of goes against the true meaning of altruism, I know. It seems that anytime you contribute to the well-being of another, God can’t help but throw some loving kindness your own way. That’s just the way He is!
A Changed Mindset
Consistently dedicating yourself to acts of charity improves your thought life. You become more concerned with giving than with getting. Your main concern is no longer possessions, but people.
Diminished Frustration
When you stretch out your hand to help someone who is visibly frustrated, it helps rid you of your own discontent. Leaving someone better inevitably leaves you better.
A Less Critical Spirit
Standing on the sidelines criticizing is very unbecoming. Even small steps to help your fellow man give way to a more understanding heart.
Increased Happiness
Living as God intended you to brings innumerable blessings. When you pour your heart into others, your soul is well fed.
Less Clutter
There’s a familiar saying, “The things you own end up owning you.” When you embrace a charitable lifestyle, you shed the excess. (See The Minimalists for instruction on downsizing.)
A Heightened Level of Fulfillment
Doing whatever it takes to help others become the people God created them to be is incredibly rewarding. You wind up celebrating their successes as if they were your own.
Constant Inspiration
When you help others reach their potential, they become a source of inspiration for you. The lasting contribution made in another person’s life motivates you to do even more.
New Perspectives
Becoming increasingly informed leads to an increased sense of responsibility. Rather than looking at a situation and dooming it hopeless, you discover new ways to make a difference. (Christians looking to put their faith in action can visit Sojourners for this.)
A Marked Difference in Your Attitude
Solving problems, improving conditions and righting wrongs kicks fatalism in the butt! The world looks brighter because you are making a lasting impact!
Powerful Bonds
When you live as an expression of God’s kindness, you naturally form deep relationships. “Give each person you meet the care and attention you would a friend, and everyone you meet will be a friend.” ~John C. Maxwell
A Restful Night’s Sleep
Following God’s direction regarding day-to-day choices brings peace. At the end of the day, you can rest in the knowledge that you didn’t just make money, you made a difference.
There are incredible opportunities at this moment in history to live a charitable lifestyle. Don’t let them pass you by. Be humble and authentic in everything you do. The hidden rewards will be great.
“And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.” ~Jesus (Matthew 19:29)