2 Corinthians 9:7 “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”
While we are instructed to be INTENTIONAL by being PURPOSEFUL about HOW MUCH we give, we are also instructed to be intentional about HOW we give by being CHEERFUL as we give.
Purposeful and cheerful. Do those words describe your giving?
The background for this verse has the Apostle Paul encouraging a group of believers in Corinth to contribute to suffering saints back in Jerusalem. He wants them to be ready to present their contribution when he arrives. However, he does not want them to give GRUDGINGLY or because of ARM TWISTING.
Why must we resist being a grudging giver? When one gives grudgingly, resentment grows toward the one asking, and regret grows within the giver.
Rather than being a “grudging” giver, the Apostle Paul wants us to be genuine givers. He tells them to PURPOSE in their hearts or MAKE THEIR OWN DECISION as to what they will give. Rather than giving because of PRESSURE, they will purposefully give. He does not want grumbling or complaining, and he definitely does not want them to feel like THEY HAVE TO BE a part of sharing with others in need. For Paul, there should be joy in giving and helping others!
Then, in what seems to be a BY THE WAY, Paul tells us what excites God, telling us what He loves, telling us that God loves a cheerful giver. The Greek word here gives us an interesting English word, hilarious!
So, what is your attitude toward giving? Do you grumble as you give or is there cheerfulness (hilariousness) as you contribute? Are you a purposeful, cheerful contributor to charities, the church, and other causes?
I would ask, what is your plan for being a giver to God’s Work? Have you prayerfully purposed in your heart to willingly and cheerfully give a portion of your income to the Lord and His work? I trust you have.
Be a purposeful and cheerful giver!
Continue Strong by cheerfully contributing to God’s work!
And remember to DATE THE WORD!