Elizabeth of Hungary had it all. Born into a wealthy, prominent family in the German Empire in 1207, Elizabeth was married at a young age to the son of a nobleman. Elizabeth not only gained great wealth through this marriage but she also inherited much wealth from her own family after her parents' deaths. She owned so much property that she was nicknamed “Elizabeth of Many Castles.”

Elizabeth did not use her wealth for her own advantage, though. As a devoted Christian, Elizabeth gave her wealth to help others. During a famine she gave money, food, and shelter to many people in her country, saving her people from death. She opened one of the first orphanages and one of the first leprosarium’s (hospitals for people with Leprosy) in eastern Europe. She served those who had nothing, expecting nothing in return.

Elizabeth never lost her generosity, even when her husband's family banished her from her home and attempted to defame her. Elizabeth was eventually named a saint by the Roman Catholic Church for all the work she did for the poor and sick.

Elizabeth offers us an incredible example of how to serve others with everything we have. She spread the love of Christ by giving all she had to the poor and needy. No matter what happened to her, Elizabeth remained generous with what God had given her, confident her true treasure awaited her in heaven with Christ. Elizabeth died at age 24, but she, no doubt, accomplished more in her short life than many do in a long lifetime. God’s Word is full of verses encouraging us to be generous givers. God promises great blessings in return to those who give with a humble heart. Generosity is a reflection of God’s character and since we are called to be like Him let’s seek out ways to be generous today! A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.²

Suggested Prayer: Dear Lord, I long to be like you. I ask that you mold my character to be like yours. Give me a heart for others and allow me to see others through your eyes. Give me a love that reflects Yours in all I say and do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1. 2 Corinthians 9:11-12 (ESV).

2. Proverbs 11:25 (NIV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.