Throughout the Bible we read about God's interest in the condition of our heart, that spiritual part of us where our emotions and desires dwell. What we do outwardly is directly connected to what's going on in our heart. If our heart is filled with love for God and a desire to serve Him, then our actions will reflect this.
In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul addresses the heart when it comes to giving. He never mentions an amount that should be given by individuals, but rather simply states that "whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully." (v. 6) Each person should decide in his heart what to give to the Lord, and that amount should be given cheerfully.
In her prayer journal Moments in Prayer, Karen Stubbs writes: "Generosity is really a heart issue. Take a look at your bank account. Where is most of your money going? Do you give first, or give the leftovers? The money trail is a direct line to the condition of your heart."
We have a generous Heavenly Father who "richly provides us with everything to enjoy" (1 Timothy 6:17). It is out of our gratitude for His generosity that we cheerfully give in return. Not just to our church in the way of a tithe, but to other needs as the Holy Spirit leads us. This will look differently for each of us, and that's as it should be. We are not under compulsion.
Whatever you give, give it willingly and cheerfully. In this God will be pleased, and you will be blessed.
Today's music video Generous Giver by Vintage Worship is a praise song to the most generous giver of all time Jesus our Savior.
I love you, I'm thinking of you, and I'm praying for you.
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