In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35
“Beyond making people feel rewarded and increasing their chance of landing a mate, generosity seems to provide many other positive benefits for the giver. Studies suggest that these benefits include better physical and psychological health…
When it comes to generosity and health, it really may be better to give than to receive. A study of patients with end-stage renal disease found that those who gave more social support—be it through social interaction, material aid, advising, or emotional support—to friends and family were significantly less likely to die over a 12-month period, whereas those who received social support were no more or less likely to die…
Another study looked at the effects of giving and receiving emotional support (such as making their spouse feel loved and cared for or listening to them when they needed to talk) and instrumental support (such as help with transportation, childcare, housework, etc.) on mortality among older married couples… After controlling for a number of variables, including the health of the participants, the researchers found that people who reported providing more emotional support to their spouse and/or instrumental support to friends, relatives, and neighbors had a significantly reduced death rate during the five-year study period, compared with those people who had reported offering less support.”
Summer Allen in “The Science of Generosity” White Paper produced by the Greater Good Science Center.
Following God’s design for living, giving, serving, and love is the better way to go. So cool that research affirms that benefits include locating a mate and living a longer and more rewarding life.
And while this represents secular research which cites dozens of sources, I found it ironic that that Summer Allen echoed Jesus (“better to give than to receive”) and yet did not cite the the biblical reference.
She would argue that generosity is the better way to go because of all the benefits it gives you. Paul would say to do it because it demonstrates actively remembering and following the instructions of Jesus.
How might you show generous emotional support to someone today? Follow God’s leading. Do it because it’s what our compassionate Lord Jesus would want you to do. It’s better. And the benefits will outweigh any expense or effort.