Have you ever noticed how hard it is to share your favorite things? Maybe you have a special toy or game that you really don’t want anyone else to touch. Or maybe when your parents ask you to give away your clothes or toys you’ve outgrown, your first thought is, “But what if I need that someday?” We naturally want to hold onto our stuff!

But God wants us to have a “willing heart” when it comes to giving. That means we’re ready and prepared to share what we have—not holding on tight to everything like it all belongs to us.

In the Old Testament, when God’s people were building the tabernacle (a special tent where they would worship God), He didn’t force anyone to give. Instead, God said that only people with “a willing heart” should bring offerings. He wanted people who were ready to let go of their possessions because they loved Him more than they loved their stuff.

The opposite of a willing heart is a selfish heart. A selfish heart holds on tight with closed fists. A willing heart holds things loosely with open hands, ready to give when there’s a need! When we have a willing heart, it shows that we trust God to take care of us. We’re not afraid to give because we know God will provide what we need. And it also shows that we care more about God and others than we care about our stuff!

Take Action: Try the “Open Hands” prayer this week! Hold your hands out in front of you with your palms facing up (like you’re holding something). Now pray: “God, everything I have comes from You. I’m holding it with open hands, not closed fists. Help me have a willing heart to give when You show me someone in need.” Practice this prayer every day!