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
“God gives us the freedom to spend the money we have earned in whatever way we desire. I believe the passion of our heart determines where our money goes. Basically, our money follows where our heart leads. Who wants a gift that was involuntary or forced? The best gifts are those given out of a heart of love (see 2 Corinthians 9:7). What the Lord wants is not our money, but our hearts, our love! The more we love the Lord and understand the opportunity God gives us to invest in eternal treasure, the more our money will flow into investing in God’s kingdom.”
Mart Green, founder of Mardel’s Christian Education and Supply stores in his three-page essay “What does God desire for us to do with what we have?” in Purposeful Living: Financial Wisdom for All of Life compiled and edited by Gary G. Hoag and Tim Macready (Rhodes, NSW: Christian Super, 2018) 46-48. Click on the title to download this free ebook today.
Many people have a heart for possessions. They pour loads money into things: houses, cars, clothing, TV’s, and the list goes on. All these things soon become obsolete. Because they do not offer lasting satisfaction, the purchasers feel both empty and unfulfilled. Then, with what’s left, sometimes they give, perhaps out of duty or obligation. If this makes sense to you, then at least at some scale, you’ve walked this path.
If giving for you is a duty or obligation, then shift your focus from the money to God. As Paul states in his second letter to the Corinthians, God does not desire anyone to give out of reluctance or compulsion. Think of it this way, He does not need the money. As Green states, God wants “our hearts, our love!” So, how do we cultivate that love?
Take five to consider all God has done for you through Jesus Christ our Lord. Do this in order to cultivate a heart filled with gratitude and love. I can’t force you to do this, but I can testify that if you do, you will do more than learn how to give cheerfully. You will discover the only source of lasting satisfaction, and you will take hold of true life.