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.” 2 Corinthians 9:7, NLT
Why does the Lord love a cheerful giver? One reason is that He is a cheerful giver. We tend to love more those who are like us. God loves cheerful givers because He is a cheerful giver. In love, our heavenly Father willingly gave His son, Jesus Christ, as payment for our sins. The greatest gift ever given was from our generous God. Before we were born, our Lord knew what we needed, so He provided without us asking because He is a loving and gracious Father. Cheerful givers anticipate needs and offer assistance before another feels the need to ask.
Our Lord is a cheerful giver of comfort as He makes our sick bed with compassionate care. Ever present reminds us of His healing presence, and our Creator’s tender touch gives wisdom to doctors and nurses to tend to our specific needs. With a pleasant nudge, the Holy Spirit guides us on where to and where not to go. There is a generosity of discernment waiting to be accessed by humble and prayerful hearts hungry to do God’s will. Our Lord loves us by kindly giving to us.
Cheerful giving reflects joyful obedience, which must bring a smile to our Savior’s face. Since love obeys, then generosity is a cheerful way to obey. Joy comes to your obedience when you are overcome by a grateful heart. Thank you, Lord, for saving me and walking with me through life’s ups and downs. I praise you for your generosity of Spirit that lifts my spirit with joy and gratitude. Joyfully obeying and cheerfully giving is a privilege and responsibility for Jesus’ followers. Since our heavenly Father gives us good gifts, we give good gifts as His children.
Deciding how much to give is a personal journey between you and God. Don’t let guilt, shame, or pressure guide your decision—He cares about your heart, not the amount. Take time to pray and reflect on what you feel led to give. Think about the generous blessings given to you and how you can use them to bless others. Giving is an opportunity to worship, not a task to check off. So, give joyfully and freely, trusting the Lord will use your gift to make a difference. Release yourself from trying to control the outcomes of your gift. Your part is to give. God’s part is to bear fruit from your generosity. Giving freely frees you from unnecessary worry.
When you give cheerfully, you open your heart to receive God’s generous love in fresh, abundant ways. Begin by acknowledging that everything you have is a gift from Him. Let that truth resonate—your heavenly Father’s love is abundant, overflowing, and personal. Celebrate with others the joy that comes from giving, knowing it reflects His character. Trust that your gift, regardless of its size, holds significance for heaven. Have faith that He will provide for you as you generously share with others. And don’t stop there—extend Christ’s love through your words and actions, directing others to His goodness. Cheerful giving isn’t just about the gift; it’s about experiencing your Father’s love and spreading it to those around you. Love joyfully gives!
