Oh, I bet you weren’t expecting that title! Let me explain what I mean.

Have you ever been really cold, and the only source of heat was a wood stove? In order to get heat from that black contraption, you must first give it some wood! So, in order to receive, you must first give.

You may think that is quite obvious, but you would be surprised how many people need help understanding this universal law of receiving. It is based on common teachings found in all spiritual paths, “it is more blessed to give than to receive.” And “as you freely give, you freely receive.”

If you try to practice this law in reverse, you will get very little results, as in, when I get a little extra money, then I’ll give to those in need. Or, when I have the time, I will help those in need.

When you focus on giving, you can best bring your gifts to others, and the Universe (God) responds abundantly. “Give, and it shall be given unto you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over.”

Giving ALWAYS precedes and predetermines the reception, whether you give your thoughts, words, service, or deeds. So, give wisely where it will do the most good.

The seasons of Hannukah, Christmas, and Quansah are upon us. What better time than this to reflect on the law of receiving, which always begins with giving first. Give systematically and regularly – that’s the key. When you give only sporadically and occasionally, you don’t generate sufficient vibrational frequency for the flow of abundance back to you.

Look around you and reflect on God’s goodness in your life. How can you make a difference in the lives of others? Taking a gift of food to a neighbor who has been ill, driving a relative, friend, or neighbor to the doctor, or volunteering at the nearest shelter for the homeless are just a few suggestions if you don’t know where to give.

The season of giving is obvious for us as we close out the year, but how can you make it your habit throughout the year? Consider an area of your life where you feel a sense of lack or would LOVE to give and focus on giving to others in that area and notice what happens. When you make this a habit, you will be surprised how often you notice times and places where you can give and give meaningfully.

So, in this season of receiving, I would love to bless you with the ability to observe and listen for ways you can practice this universal law of receiving.

Have a Blessed Holiday Season,

Linda Smith