2 Corinthians 9:7,“You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.’” (NLT).
Giving is often a talking point that consumes a lot of people. How much should I give? Am I giving too much? Why should I give? All these are only some of the questions that form a talking point. But do you know that when it comes to giving, God is much more interested in what is in your heart than what’s in your purse or wallet? What He really wants is your willingness, not your wealth. After all, He is the source; everything comes from Him.
The scriptural reference in 2 Corinthians 9:7 shares four key heart attitudes you should have when you give.
- Give thoughtfully. Don’t give impulsively. The most spiritual kind of giving is when you think about it, pray about it, and then make up your mind about it. God wants your giving to be important and meaningful in your life, so He wants you to plan for it.
- Give enthusiastically. Don’t just think, “I have to give!” Give because you know God’s going to do something big in your heart when you become a generous person.
- Give freely. Any time someone pressures you to give, don’t do it. God’s not going to bless that kind of giving anyway. But when you feel God challenging you to give, that’s the time to give generously and freely.
- Give happily. One of the Greek words for “offering” has the same root as the word “hilarious.” God wants you to enjoy giving to Him and to others.
If you make giving part of your life, it doesn’t just change those around you; it changes you. Studies have shown that generosity leads to more happiness, contentment, and a better quality of life. Next time you’re considering whether to give or how much to give, remember that God’s greatest concern is your heart. When you give thoughtfully, enthusiastically, voluntarily, and happily, then you know that’s a gift God will bless.