| “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7 |
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| The CHEERFUL Giver Every now and then we get a glimpse into what EXCITES God – what He loves! Here in 2 Cor. 9:7, we learn God loves a CHEERFUL giver. This description of God’s feelings regarding giving comes from the Apostle Paul who is encouraging a group of believers in Corinth to contribute to some 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. When one gives this way both resentment toward the one asking grows and regret within the giver grows. The Apostle Paul wants their giving to be genuine. 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 be giving based on PURPOSE. He does not want grumbling, or complaining, and he definitely does not want them feeling like THEY HAVE TO BE a part of sharing with others in need. For Paul, there should be joy in giving and helping others! So, what is your attitude toward giving? Do you grumble as you give or is there cheerfulness as you contribute? Are you a purposeful, cheerful contributor to charities, the church, and other causes? As well 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? Verse to DATE the Word on September 7 (9/7) is 2 Corinthians 9:7. It says, “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” What changes need to take place based on the teaching of 2 Corinthians 9:7? Continue Strong cheerfully contributing to God’s work! And remember to DATE THE WORD! |