Give Cheerfully

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

 

I remember hearing this verse in Sunday School as a young girl. I always thought that if I was happy when the offering plate was passed and I put in some money, then God would be pleased with me. "There, see God, I gave you something!"

 

But, what if instead of having an attitude of obligation, I had an attitude that was intentional as I offered back to Him what was already His?

 

Giving cheerfully is not just about having the right attitude when the offering plate is passed. I would, instead, suggest that it is a lifestyle of bestowing blessings on others who may need an encouraging word or arm of comfort or just someone to listen. It is an investment into the lives of others and it is purposeful.

 

I love how Paul couched verse 7 between 6 and 8:

vs 6 - Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.

 

vs 8 - And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

Our attitude should be to do what we do generously and cheerfully. And, we have the assurance that He will give us all we need when we need it to do what He has called us to do.

 

How purposeful is your giving? Are you cheerful in your attitude? Do you really believe that God will give you all you need to do all that He has called you to do? Stop, and ask Him to help you to give cheerfully to those He directs across your path.