Purposeful Giving
2 Corinthians 9:6-15
So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Purposeful giving relates to diligently planning what we give to support others, missions and God’s work on earth. God expects us to give to those who do not have. Not only that, He wants us to do this with expectations in our hearts that He will reward us. See Luke 6:38; Proverbs 19:17.
Paul, writing to the Corinthians, encouraged them to finish what they had started. They planned to give. They needed to make good their promises. “It is to your advantage not only to be doing what you began and were desiring to do a year ago; but now you also must complete the doing of it…” (2 Corinthians 8:10-11).
Many of us are willing but fail to actualize our desires and willingness with concrete actions. God’s abounding grace is available to us as we choose to give of our resources to the Lord and the needy around us. See 2 Corinthians 9:8.
How can we be more deliberate in our giving?
- Have a budget for seeds and offerings while being open to sacrificial giving as the Lord leads you.
- Avoid coercion to give so that you do not get into debt.
- Realize that God has given you what to give. Ask Him to show you.
- Be a cheerful giver.
May the Lord help us as we improve in our giving in Jesus’ Name.
Amen.
Your Turn
- Pray about your desires to give.
- Ask the Lord to supply what to give.
- Pray for the willingness to give as you have the means.
Hymn: Give of your best to the Master.
Further Reading: Matthew 25:34 – 40.