Have you ever people watched and wondered what another person’s life was like?  How about that mom with three young kids.  She looks so tired and worn out.  How could you make a difference in her life?  Or what about that elderly man, who looks so lonely.  What could you do to make him smile?  Here’s a challenge, next time you are out and about, pay attention to the people around you.

Maybe God wants to use you to change their life.

The following is a list of 7 fun ways to bless strangers.  The moment it will take you to give to a stranger, is a moment that they may remember for a lifetime.

1. Purchase gift cards to give to random people.

Attach a note or scripture to a gift card. Then ask God to guide you to a person who needs encouragement.  Make it an accident by acting like it fell out of their purse.  Gift cards are always appreciated, whether they are for restaurants, the movies, or shopping.

2. Visit a nursing home.

It is SO sad to think about how many elderly people never get visitors.  How lonely that must be. And visiting a nursing home can be fun! Take a group of friends, play games, sing songs, listen to their stories.  It just may change your life.

3. Pay for a random families meal, while eating out.

Next time you go out to eat, pick out a family or a couple, and bless them by taking care of their tab.  Be anonymous.  Have the server give them a note sharing God’s love with the free meal.  My parents did this for some friends of mine a year or so ago and the memory is still brought up today.

4. Have pizza delivered anonymously.

Know of a family who needs a break.  Or someone who is home bound. Surprise them with a pizza.  Who doesn’t like pizza?!

5. Leave a bag of groceries on the doorstep of a family who could use some help.

Know a family embarrassed to ask for help.  Buy nonperishable food, set it on their doorstep, ring the bell, and hide! or just leave it. . .  Or donate to a food bank, better yet volunteer at a food bank, get a group together, you’ll be surprised how much fun you will have.

6. Buy someone’s gas, while filling up your own car.

Imagine someone offering to pay for your gas, or better yet, taking care of your bill without you even knowing.  With gas prices these days. . . What a blessing this could be!

7. Volunteer at a school.

Many elementary or even middle schools have programs needing volunteers.  Read to a child, or just listen while a child reads you a book.  Children need to be heard, they need to feel special and confident. This is a great way to encourage local kids, and make a lasting impression on young people.  Kids are our future, our greatest investment.

How else can we be a blessing to strangers?  Please share in the comments below.