August 31
God Loves
a Cheerful Giver
2 Corinthians 9:7
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.
Daily Steps
Moving from the practical paradox of giving (Day 243) to the heart behind it, this verse teaches the new believer the crucial difference between required giving and joyful generosity. It clarifies the necessary attitude for this spiritual discipline: God loves a cheerful giver.
The peace in this principle is found in willing sacrifice:
The Sovereignty of the Heart: Giving is an act of worship that begins internally: Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give. True generosity is intentional and planned (Planning for the Future, Day 241), reflecting a commitment made in the quiet of your own spirit before God.
The Right Attitude: The warning is against giving not reluctantly or under compulsion. Reluctant giving, forced by guilt or external pressure, misses the spiritual mark. God values the attitude more than the amount. Giving should flow from an act of sincere love (Day 217).
The Divine Preference: The reason for this focus on attitude is profound: God loves a cheerful giver. The word "cheerful" suggests joyful readiness and enthusiasm. When you give cheerfully, you are demonstrating deep trust (Day 176) in His provision and celebrating the opportunity to participate in His work, which ultimately secures your peace.
Your peace is secured by joyful giving. Choose to give not out of duty, but out of cheerfulness, knowing that this enthusiastic generosity pleases the Lord and reflects a heart anchored in His abundance.
Reflective Question
If you review your recent giving (of time, money, or effort), can you honestly say you gave it cheerfully? What specific change in mindset do you need to make to ensure that your giving is an intentional, joyful act and not reluctantly or under compulsion?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to give reluctantly and my fear of lack. I pray for a transformed heart, that I may be a cheerful giver in every area of my life.
Help me to remember that Your love is not dependent on my gift, but You honor a joyful heart. Secure my peace today, as I choose to practice generosity with enthusiasm, knowing that You love a cheerful giver. Amen.
