#ElevatedFriday, September 29th, 2017

Happy #ElevatedFriday! With the NFL controversy dominating the news this week, there was one uplifting story from the NFL that we all can agree was incredible. Deshaun Watson, the Quarterback for the Houston Texans, just started his rookie season a few weeks ago, and only a few weeks after Hurricane Harvey devastated his new city. Upon hearing that three of the Texans' cafeteria workers, who daily cook meals for the players, had lost their cars and homes in the storm, Deshaun decided to give his very first NFL paycheck to them. Athletes like Deshaun dream from a young age of making it to the professional leagues, and often idolize the money and fame that result from accomplishing that dream. Deshaun himself comes from a struggling background, his family having been the recipient of a house built through Habitat For Humanity. For someone in his shoes, that check was the first taste of a life of luxury and fame -- something most would covet. However, Deshaun gave it all away to those who were in need.

Giving is too often the furthest thing from our minds when life is easy, luxurious, or pampered. It seems paradoxical, but statistics prove that the lowest and poorest among us are the most generous. Perhaps because Deshaun Watson does not come from a pampered upbringing is the reason he gave his first check to those in need. Regardless, a daily and conscious practice of giving to others is crucial for Jesus' word to be fulfilled. Giving when we feel like it, when an opportunity arises, or when we are feeling guilty is not enough. We must live to give every day. In Hebrews, it says, "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." There are many forms of giving, not all are monetary. Today make the decision to give something of yourself to your marriage, your children, to friends, to family, or strangers. Make that same decision every day.

"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." -- Hebrews 13:16 ESV

Original Article:

http://bit.ly/2xHU6M0