The research is in.

And now we know the one, surefire way that leads to fufillment: giving. Research says givers are hands down happier, healthier, and more prosperous than those who hoard and make less of a habit of being charitable toward others.

Jesus knew this, even gave us ways to understand it more deeply in his most famous teaching, the Sermon on the Mount. When we give, we’re blessed, so here’s how he describes the ideal way to be a giver:

“Blessed are the poor… Givers are willing to give of ourselves, to be ‘poor’ so that others might prosper.
“Blessed are those who mourn… Givers are empathetic, sharing the sorrows and heartaches of others.
“Blessed are the meek… This means we do not live for the spotlight, we let others go first when it comes to taking the credit.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness… This means we hunger less for possessions and experiences, and more for doing the right thing.
“Blessed are the merciful… We’re first to show mercy and forgive others.
“Blessed are the pure in heart… We approach God and others to seek forgiveness, immediately, to remain ‘pure.’
“Blessed are the peacemakers… Givers are the first to give in after an argument, and the first to say we’re sorry (hard to do).
“Blessed are those who are persecuted… Givers aren’t afraid take the flak for others; to stand against injustice.

In our search for contentment, let’s consider these ideals, for to truly live is to truly give.