October 13 | 2 Corinthians 9:7-8

“Each one just as he has chosen in his heart, not reluctantly or out of obligation, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you for the purpose that at all times having all that you need you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:7–8)

The government has never seen a cheerful taxpayer. Sicking the IRS on people doesn’t help. Any amount of force snuffs out generosity. Cheerful giving comes out of the heart, not the wallet. It must be a choice.

Paul lays down the principal that giving to the Lord must be decided by each person. It’s none of our business how much each person gives. Giving reluctantly doesn’t produce cheer or gratitude in a person. And giving under compulsion doesn’t give the Spirit the opportunity to speak to our hearts.

God doesn’t want anything from us we are not willing to give to Him. He explained this to the Israelites over and over with sacrifices. God does not need your money. He owns the cattle on a thousand hills.

Giving to the Lord is more about you than Him. It’s a trust issue. It’s also understanding who owns the money, and all your resources. God owns everything but He entrusts His blessings to you to steward well. He makes you prosper, blesses you, to bless others.

Being a cheerful giver isn’t only about money. It’s about giving yourself, your time, your talents, your resources to God. He gave His Son on the Cross for you.

Action Step: Give cheerfully to the Lord out of His abundant blessings given to you. Offer your time, talents, and resources to Him.

Lord Jesus, thank you for your abundant blessings poured out to me. I want to bless Your heart. Increase my faith to give more of myself to Your Kingdom and others.