TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
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. 2 Corinthians 9:7
Read: 2 Corinthians 9:6-11
Listen: 2 Corinthians 9
TODAY’S MESSAGE
In today’s verses, Paul encourages his readers by saying that God loves a cheerful giver. At least one reason God loves a cheerful giver is that he is a cheerful giver. He created this world with incredible beauty and wonder for us to enjoy. His creation is a gift. He gave us brains to think, plus hands and feet to create things and serve others. Finally, he gave us his Son to die on the cross for us. There is no question our God is a generous giver!
It is not surprising that he delights in us when our hearts delight in giving. When we share with others, we model his character and behavior. In this, we bring him glory and experience the full life he created for us. This is why we ought to regularly ask ourselves the third question of the week, “How do I share?” Watch the video clip below as Pastor Jeff Manion encourages us to consider how we can grow in this area.
Cheerful giving is a great weapon against the challenge of affluence. It reminds us that our things belong to God and are gifts given to us. But we must be cautious not to depend on generous moments. Spontaneity is good and should be a part of our generosity, but it can’t replace consistency. We move toward generosity in an affluent society by developing a heart of generosity and a plan to be generous. We bring delight to our God by sharing our resources with those around us with a cheerful heart.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Generosity sometimes happens in the moment, but it also requires a plan. Begin by asking God to help you grow a greater heart of generosity today. If you don’t have a plan to be generous, today is a great day to start one. If you have a plan, consider what small step forward you can take next. If you need to talk to someone about this, send us an email at btw@adabible.org.
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is Matthew 24.
