Giving benefits our marriage in unexpected ways too. It binds us in common purpose, strengthens our relationship as we make decisions of where to give together, and simplifies our life. One of the most exciting aspects of giving is that it frees you from allowing your possessions to possess you. Through giving, you let go of the need to let stuff and things control your life and instead provide a testimony to God's provisions. You demonstrate the faith that he will remain faithful in giving to you. Matthew 6:30-33 highlights this truth:

If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers -- most of which are never even seen -- don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met (MSG).

Through giving, you awaken to both the God-initiative and the God-reality that is in your life. Remember that the giving element in a five-star life isn't just about finances. It reaches further into your relationships and involvement in the community. It includes the listening ear you offer to a friend going through a hard time, the moment you patiently wait for an elderly person to cross the street, and the Saturday afternoon volunteering to sort through clothes at the Salvation Army. Five-Star Living means putting your talents and time to work in the directions that God leads, letting him steer you to exciting places and stretch you out of your comfort zone in new directions. Here are some favorite ways to contribute to others:

• Tithe to your local church. By giving ten percent of your income to your local congregation, you are helping support others in the community through your donations. If you haven't started tithing already, begin today.

• Support nonprofit radio and television shows. Do you have a Christian program, either on radio or television, that really encourages you and breathes life into you? If so, consider writing them an encouraging letter, praying for the station and its employees, and making a donation. While you should avoid high-pressure tactics to give, you also need to be sensitive to supporting the outreaches that mean the most to you.

• Sponsor a child. An enriching and potentially life-changing event is choosing to sponsor a child from a third world country. For around a dollar a day, you can help make sure one of the poorest of the poor receives a warm meal and education. Some programs even allow you to visit your child in their native country, a rewarding experience for everyone involved. Consider sponsoring a child through Compassion International, www.compassion.com, or World Vision, www.worldvision.org.