I recently came across an interesting post that talked about how wealthy we are as a country. We enjoy a standard of living that most countries can only dream of. Even the poor of this country are much better off than the poor of other emerging nations.
Often we become forgetful of how much we really do have, and how little many others in the world have. We live a comfortable life, and it can be hard to even picture how people in other parts of the world could be having a hard time.
As a nation we need to remember just how blessed we are, and try to use our great wealth to help others, instead of just squandering it on things. In 1 Timothy 6:17-19 we are commanded to do just that:
Command those who are rich in this present world … to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
One thing that I found helpful in trying to picture just how fortunate I am is to go to a website called Globalrichlist.com. On that site you can put in your yearly salary, and it will tell you just how “wealthy” you are.
As an example, if you make over $47,500 dollars, according to the Rich List you are among the world’s wealthiest 1%. That’s right, the top 1%!
Gee, you’re in the top 1%, you can probably spare a dollar here or there can’t you? That’s my challenge to all my readers this month. Find where there’s a little extra in the budget this month, and give! You’ll be helping out someone in need, and it’ll make you feel good. Giving is good for your health!
LINKS:
globalrichlist.com
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You are right! We really do not realize just how rich we are in this country. I for one am tired of hearing all the griping that people do about the USA. It is time to count our blessings!
Jeff@MySuper-Charged Lifes last blog post..The Reasons I Think America Is A Great Country
Great point Pete.
I think globalization has been starting to level the playing field, which probably means we won’t see the relative standard of living dominance we have experienced in the past. I think it might be a little bit of a shock, when we as a nation comes to grips with that. Good for the rest of the world, though.
The Happy Rocks last blog post..Frugal Summer Treat – Homemade Popsicles
Okay, I took your advice.
The USO has a program where you can donate money to buy phone cards for soldiers to call home. In the spirit of the 4th of July, I did it!
Absolutely wonderful post and really puts things into perspective… Hmmmmm, maybe something The Money LIFE Network could cook up in some monthly setup, a donation to x, y, or z…
hanks last blog post..Are The Tax Rebate Stimulus Checks Just a Crafty Way To Catch Cunning Criminals?
@ Eponine – I’m glad I spurred you on to give..!
@ hank – maybe that wouldn’t be such a bad idea – money life network blogs for charity, or donate a portion of blog income to charity for a month or something.. hmmm
@ Jeff – i agree, enough with the griping already!
I’m in the top 10.5%
And what matters more is that I don’t feel too pinched for money…since knowing you’re in the top 10% and realizing you’re in the top 10% are two different things.