Thursday — Letters

Reading – 2 Corinthians 9-10

Highlight Verse:

“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

This is always a tough subject to figure out.

The very fact that tithing is a principle taught in the Bible brings on pressure to give.

So how do we give without pressure?

First, I should mention that the gift Paul was collecting was to support those in need in Jerusalem. The Corinthians were already supporting their local church (which is what the tithe is for).

That’s not to say that the tithe shouldn’t be given cheerfully.

For us, it is just part of the normal monthly budget, and I rejoice when I see it spent to bring people to Jesus.

From time to time, there are other causes that stir your heart.

It could be sponsoring a child in need to hear the gospel and receive an education through the many ministries that provide that.

It could be helping victims of a natural disaster.

Or maybe it’s supporting a cause that is near and dear to your heart.

I can tell you from experience that being able to give as your heart directs is a far greater joy than holding on to money out of fear or greed (though saving for the future is also important).

I’ve also been on the side that has received help from other people’s giving.

That is humbling.

Finally, I’ve known people like the Macedonians (read the rest of the chapter) who would give even when it meant doing without themselves.

And they were some of the most joy filled people I have known.

No pressure here. (I’m not a non-profit so don’t try to give to me).

But if you want to know pure joy, give!

How has giving been a joy in your life?
In what situations have you seen people give who got more than their share of joy in return?