While waiting to pay for items, I heard the Holy Spirit whisper, “Pay for the woman’s order in front of  you.”

I hesitated until the woman told the clerk to remove a few items. Then I told the cashier to add the lady’s bill to mine. The customer smiled, thanked me, and we chatted briefly about the supplies she was purchasing for her granddaughter.

After paying for my items and strolling to my vehicle, the Holy Spirit spoke distinctly, telling me to be obedient and trust God, not my bank account.

A feeling of peace engulfed me, and three days later, I still felt the peaceful spirit.

I’m happy I was obedient and acted unselfishly, although initially, I halted as if I would disobey.

It was not me because my selfish spirit didn’t want to do it, but the unselfish Holy Spirit living in me encouraged me to be obedient.

That unselfishness brought cheer and joy to me and a stranger.

I admit I was more blessed by obeying and giving than the receiver, and I decided I would be a frequent giver by choice and not wait for the Holy Spirit to prompt me.

As most are in a cheerful and giving mood this Christmas season, remember that God loves a cheerful giver and promises that it will be offered to us if we provide it. Give, and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you Luke 6:38 (NKJV).

 

 

“The unselfish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for  ourselves.”

_________________________________________________________________________________________________Helen Keller