Guaranteed Return on Your Investment

"There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up."
-- John Andrew

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To invest means to devote or spend something for future benefit. We invest our money with the hope of a greater financial return. Students invest their time studying with the hope of getting good grades. Athletes invest in rigorous training/conditioning programs with the hope of becoming better in their chosen sport.

Basically, there are two types of investments: money and time. Financial investments vary from the conservative savings accounts to risky capital ventures. Conservative financial investments usually have a small predetermined return based upon a set percentage; whereas, risky investments can yield a significant monetary loss or gain.

Unlike financial investments that are limited to financial matters only, the investment of time is unrestricted. You can invest your time in anything you want to. The key is that your investment of time is productive; remember, "to devote for future benefit!"

Not being a financial advisor, I would never pretend to give you any advice on financial investments. However, I do offer some advice on how to invest your time. The advice is guaranteed to produce a significant return on your investment. My advice is to invest your time on others. Sounds simple, does it not! How can such simple advice about investing your time in others produce a significant return on your investment?

The Good Book tells us that it is in giving that you receive. The ancient writer tells us, “Give, and it will be given to you. Your gift will be returned to you.” In order for your gift to be returned to you, it cannot be given with the expectation of something in return. It does not work that way. Your gift of time must be unselfish and for the benefit of another.

Understand that most often, your gift of time will be returned to you; a return on your investment. It is called the law of reciprocity. Now, there may be days, months, and years that you have unselfishly invested your time for the betterment of another. And, it may appear that you have not received anything in return. Bear in mind that it is quite possible that your time and service to another may never be repaid during your lifetime. However, the law of reciprocity is still at work. It is at work on a much more significant level. The Good Lord sees your investment of time and love. Your gift of time on another person is pleasing to him and you will be repaid; just as the Good Book tells us. When you invest your time on others, God, in return, will invest his time in you; making your return on your investment eternal. And, there is no better return on your investment; I guarantee it!

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It's your life: live it, love it & celebrate it!
MJD