June 5
The Joy of
Generous Giving
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
Anxiety can steal the joy of giving when it is viewed as a financial loss or a burdensome requirement. This verse provides the new believer with the path to peaceful and joyful generosity: God loves a cheerful giver.
The peace in this principle is found in the heart's attitude:
The Heart's Decision: Giving must be intentional and personal: "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give." This means giving is not a random action but a planned, prayerful decision (The Wisdom of Planning, Day 150). This intentionality removes the anxiety of impulse.
The Rejection of Reluctance: We are commanded not to give "reluctantly or under compulsion." Giving out of guilt, fear, or external pressure destroys inner peace. True giving is motivated by gratitude for God's provision (Day 146) and a desire to invest in heavenly treasure (Day 153).
The Result is Cheerfulness: The ultimate goal is to become a "cheerful giver." The Greek word for cheerful is the root of our word hilarity. When you truly believe God is the Owner (Day 145) and the Provider, giving back to Him becomes a joyous, hilarious act that secures profound peace and satisfaction.
Your financial peace is secured by the joy of generosity. When you release your resources with a cheerful heart, you defeat the spirit of materialism and experience God's love and satisfaction.
Reflective Question
Is there an area of your giving (whether time or money) where you feel a sense of compulsion or reluctance? How can you commit to prayerfully deciding today to make that giving truly cheerful, knowing that this is the heart God loves?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to view giving as a compulsory tax rather than a joyful privilege. I pray for the spiritual discipline to give as I have decided in my heart to give.
Remove all reluctance from me, and fill me with the joy and hilarity of Your Spirit. May I be a cheerful giver today, securing my peace and expressing my gratitude for Your faithful provision. Amen.
