THE GOOD DEED SAVINGS

“I cannot do all the good that the world needs. But the world needs all the good that I can do.” ― Jana Stanfield

 

How often do you offer a random act of kindness?  Everyday? Every week? Every month? Every year? Is there a hidden motive behind your acts of kindness? How intentional are you about offering kindness? Is there a hidden motive behind your acts of kindness?

 

Being kind is not something that comes naturally to the vast majority. It is easier to be unkind than to be kind. Being kind requires effort, but it is always worth it. The world is a dark place, and we ought to brighten it as often we can to the best of our abilities. Displaying acts of kindness is the first step in making the world slightly better. Doing good deeds not only benefits the recipient, but it also benefits the doer.

 

Every little act counts – buying a stranger a cup of coffee, getting food for the homeless, donating toys to children, offering help to someone in need, volunteering in various organizations, assisting the elderly,  holding the door open for a stranger, buying gifts for your loved ones, donating money to someone who needs help, praying for someone etc. It does not have to be a grand gesture like buying someone a house, or donating thousands of dollars (though, that would be nice too). Those “small” acts actually go a long way – as they may change someone else’s life.

 

Science has also proven that doing good deeds influences our emotional and physical well-being. Some of these benefits include reducing stress, the brain releases more endorphins i.e. makes us happier, makes a person live longer, promotes mental health etc. I think this is true because I definitely feel happier when I help people, and I’m motivated to do more!  Does this happen to you too?

 

If those scientific benefits do not motivate you to do good, some other benefits of kindness include:

 

• Karma: Some of you may not believe in karma, but I know that “You reap what you sow”, if you “sow” good deeds, you will “reap” the benefits, and vice versa. Wouldn’t it be nice to start investing in people, because you never know what the future holds? Your good deeds may save you (or your descendants) in the distant future!

 

• Self-Growth: Doing good deeds also helps you by developing your character. You start to think less of yourself, and more of others. You are more focused on how you can help people, instead of thinking of what you can benefit from people. A kind heart births meekness and humility, and that is what Jesus wants!

 

• Motivation: Rendering acts of kindness leads to development of a greater sense of purpose. It helps you see the world from a different perspective, and makes you appreciate the things you have. It helps you look for more ways to play a more significant role in the world and making it a better place.

 

• “Savings Account” in Heaven: This is the best part. Every good deed you do on earth counts! It is being stored up in your ‘savings account” in heaven. Jesus said in Mark 10: 21 “… Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” If scoring points in heaven is not an incentive, then what is?

 

So, let us reflect, and question ourselves. Are we storing up treasures on earth or in heaven? How full is our “good deeds savings” account? What values are most important to us? Remember, where your treasure is, therein also lies your heart.

 

 

Xo.