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    Andrew Carnegie is considered by most historians to be one of the richest and most ruthless of the robber barons” who flourished at the beginning of the twentieth century. His lasting legacy, however, is as a man who gave. Some 2,505 libraries bear his name, and they are only a small part of his philanthropic effort.

“How much have I given away so far?”

    In his later years, Carnegie once demanded of his accountants, “How much have I given away so far?”

    The accountants knew down to the last dollar: “$324,657,399 to be exact.” Carnegie blinked and gulped when he heard the figure. And then he recovered from his own astonishment to exclaim, “Good heavens, where did I get all that money?”

    Statues are not sculpted in honor of misers. Monuments are not erected in memory of those who have a reputation for stinginess. Names of honor are not given to those who hoard. We make a living by what we get — yet we make a life by what we give. In Acts 20:35, Jesus is quoted as teaching, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” One of the best ways to make it into the annals of history, as well as into the goodwill of others, is to be a person noted for generosity. Even more important is the assurance that when our giving is done cheerfully, it blesses God and brings him delight. (2 Corinthians 9:7).

    Why not make it a point to be a giver... of your time, talent, treasure and any other resource God has blessed you with. You won’t regret it.