Mother Teresa said: “if you do something, and I do something, then together, we will do something beautiful for God.”

Here are some global income statistics from in 2023 to consider:

• The average global personal income is $9,733 per year.

• The average global household income is $12,235 per year. (zippia.com)

• The median per-capita household income is only $2,920 per year. (zippia.com)

• Making over $100,000 puts you in the top 10% of global earners, while making over $1 million puts you in the top 1%. (zippia.com)

• The minimum wage in Bangladesh is set to 1,500 Bangladeshi taka (BDT) or 14.62 USD a month. (skuad.com)

When we saw those number all we could say was WOW. Have you ever stopped to consider how truly blessed you are? Maybe you’re not a millionaire (or maybe you are), but we all have something or some way we can give to others. Whether it’s a donation to an honorable charity, sponsoring a child or family in need, volunteering of time to a food bank, helping an elderly person run errands, volunteering to help at church events or any number of God-honoring acts, the Lord will be pleased by your offering to Him. And have no doubt, our Father is faithful to provide for all His children and He loves when we have a giving heart.

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8

Lent is the perfect season to consider making changes in your giving. Consider how your obedience to God in being a cheerful giver will have a ripple effect on the lives around you. It’s good to wisely budget your money, but Matthew 25:35-36 tells us the truth behind the heart and actions of giving. It’s in these acts that we bring a tiny glimpse the Kingdom of God down to earth here and now.

For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ Matthew 25:35-36

May whatever you have planned to give to the Lord and to others be a holy and pleasing offering to the Lord. May He fill you with strength and his protection as you grow closer to Him.