I read how psychiatrist Karl Menninger once asked a very wealthy patient, “What are you going to do with all your money?”

The patient replied, “Just worry about it, I guess.”

“In that case,” said the doctor, “do you experience much pleasure out of worrying about your money?”

“No, but I feel much terror when I think of giving any of it away.”

Commenting on his patient’s money-sickness, Dr. Menninger said, “Generous people are rarely mentally ill!”

In the light of this comment, it’s interesting to note that, “According to a recent report, charitable giving in America has increased less than one percent over the past few years. During the same time span, however, debt payments have risen 550 percent, while our entertainment spending is up 123 percent. Not surprisingly, the average consumer in this country spends $1.05 to $1.10 for every dollar of income. The figures are startling, even for a society where millions of people live in various degrees of financial debt.”

Giving is an attitude. It is a way of life. Some people are givers—others takers—and some are keepers. Whether we give of our money, time, talents, or love, as Jesus reminds us, “Give and it will be given to you.” And I think I could safely say, “Take and the most valuable things of life will be taken from you.”

Suggested prayer, “Dear God, please help me to be a giver, first to you and then to others—and never just a taker or a keeper. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus’ name, amen.”

1. Luke 6:38.