“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 

2 Corinthians 9:7 (ESV) 

When we think about giving, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that it’s just about money or material things. But the Bible paints a much richer picture. Giving is a matter of the heart, a reflection of our love for God and for others. It’s about sharing what we have—whether it’s our time, our talents, or our resources—with a spirit of joy and generosity.

In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul gives us a glimpse into the kind of giving that pleases God. He tells us that each person should give as they’ve decided in their heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion. Why? Because God loves a cheerful giver. Notice the focus here isn’t on the amount we give, but on the attitude with which we give.

There’s a big difference between giving because we feel like we have to and giving because we want to. When we give cheerfully, it’s like we’re saying to God, “Thank You for blessing me so that I can bless others.” It’s an act of worship, a way of expressing our gratitude for all that God has done for us. And here’s the beautiful part: when we give with this kind of heart, it not only blesses others, but it also brings joy to us.

I remember a time when I was stretched thin. The bills were piling up, the to-do list seemed never-ending, and the last thing I felt like doing was giving. But then, out of the blue, a friend of mine was going through an even tougher time. They didn’t ask for help, but I could see the weight they were carrying. So, I decided to do something about it. I didn’t have much to offer, but I gave what I could—some time, a listening ear, and a little help with their situation.

What surprised me most wasn’t their gratitude, although that was heartwarming. It was the joy I felt afterward. It was like a burden lifted off my own shoulders. In that moment, I realized that giving isn’t just about helping others; it’s also about allowing God to work through us, to spread His love and light in ways we might not even fully understand.

This is the kind of giving that Paul is talking about—a giving that comes from the heart, that’s free from guilt or obligation, and that’s full of joy. It’s a giving that mirrors God’s own generosity toward us. After all, He gave us the greatest gift of all—His Son, Jesus Christ—freely and lovingly, so that we could have eternal life.

So, how do we cultivate this cheerful heart of giving? It starts with recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God. When we truly grasp that, our natural response is to want to give back, to share those blessings with others. It’s about being intentional, deciding in our hearts to be generous, and then acting on that decision.

As we go through this week, I challenge you to look for opportunities to give—whether it’s your time, your talents, or your resources. Don’t wait for a perfect moment or for someone to ask. Instead, let’s be proactive in our generosity, knowing that God delights in our cheerful giving. And as you give, take a moment to reflect on the joy that comes with it. Notice how God uses your generosity to bless others, and in turn, to fill your own heart with joy.

Remember, the size of the gift isn’t what matters most. It’s the heart behind it. God loves a cheerful giver, and when we give from a place of love and gratitude, we’re not just giving away something; we’re sharing a piece of ourselves, reflecting the very nature of God.