II Corinthians 9:7-8 (NIV)
“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. 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.”
Life is a gift. It is a gift from God. And just like a gift, it is – precious and valuable. And life is a blessing. We should not take one day for granted – because everything can change in a moment. God sees in this life – where man or woman cannot see.
In this life, God created us to worship Him! Yet, we tend to take life for granted. The truth of the matter is, thousands, if not millions of people, will fill churches – on any given Sunday going through the motions of worship – without ever truly worshiping God. And many will perform religious rituals and never offer genuine worship from the heart. We tend to fool others with our outward actions, but we cannot fool God. For God looks beyond our appearances and sees our hearts.
God values the attitude of the heart! It is valued more than the amount of any gift. And giving comes from a place of joy, gratitude, and willingness, not guilt, or pressure, or obligation. So, in essence:
- Giving is an act of worship, not a duty; and
- Cheerful giving reflects trusting with a grateful heart.
- For God delights in generosity – that flows from love, and not reluctance.
When it comes to how we give, scripture reveals the three joys of giving: First, the “what” to give means we should give what we have decided in our heart to give.” The “how” to give says we are not to give reluctantly or under any compulsion.” And the “why” to give means “God is able to shower all kinds of blessings on us.”
Being a Christian is not about self-improvement; it’s about receiving an entirely new life, a life born of the Holy Spirit and shaped by God’s transforming power. It’s not about trying harder; it’s about surrendering deeper – allowing the Holy Spirit to live through you, shaping your thoughts, your actions, and most importantly, your heart. It is a heart marked by love and grace, with a sincere desire to walk in obedience unto God.
And when we give our hearts fully to God, something wonderful happens! A powerful feeling comes over us – a deep, abiding joy! It’s a joy that wells up from within – sometimes so strong it overflows! For when you experience this kind of joy, it floods your soul. This joy creates community. This joy defeats materialism. This joy strengthens our faith.
Rev. Marion J. Miller is the senior pastor of Wesley United Methodist Church, 1201 Thomas V. Bryant Drive, Jeffersonville, Indiana. Contact her at 812-283-3747 or wesley1201@sbcglobal.net.
