”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 9:7New International Version (NIV)
2 Corinthians 9:7 Devotional (Daily Bible Verse)
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give
In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul commanded the Christians at Corinth with the words: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give“.
2 Corinthians 9:7 speaks to the heart of generosity: “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.” This verse isn’t just about financial giving; it’s about a heart posture, a willingness to share with joy and freedom. It challenges us to examine our motives and to embrace a spirit of generosity that reflects God’s own heart. Let’s explore the depth of this verse and discover how it can transform our approach to giving.
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give
This emphasizes the importance of intentionality and personal conviction. Giving shouldn’t be a thoughtless act or a mere obligation. It should be a deliberate decision, rooted in a genuine desire to bless others.
Not reluctantly or under compulsion
This highlights the danger of giving out of guilt or pressure. God isn’t interested in forced generosity. He desires a heart that is willing and eager to share. Reluctant giving is a burden, not a blessing.
For God loves a cheerful giver
This is the heart of the matter. God values the attitude behind our giving. He delights in those who give freely and joyfully, whose hearts are filled with love and compassion. This cheerfulness isn’t about the amount given, but about the spirit in which it’s offered.
Therefore, this verse challenges us to move beyond mere financial transactions and to embrace a lifestyle of generosity. It’s about recognizing that everything we have comes from God, and that giving is an act of worship and gratitude.
Whether we are giving our time, talents, or resources, the key is to do it with a cheerful heart, knowing that God sees and values our generosity.
Reflection
- What is your attitude towards giving? Do you give willingly and joyfully, or do you feel a sense of reluctance or obligation?
- What motivates your giving? Are you seeking to please God, or are you driven by other motives?
- How can you cultivate a more cheerful and generous heart? What practical steps can you take to overcome reluctance and embrace joy in giving?
- How can we give not just money, but our time and abilities cheerfully?
Prayer/Blessing
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your generosity and for the privilege of giving. I confess that my heart is often reluctant, and my motives are sometimes impure.
Help me to cultivate a cheerful and generous spirit, that I may give freely and joyfully. Transform my heart, that I may reflect Your love and compassion in my giving. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Call to Action
Today, make a conscious effort to give with a cheerful heart.
- Reflect on your giving habits and identify areas where you can improve.
- Pray for a heart of generosity and ask God to reveal opportunities to give.
- Give something, whether it’s your time, talents, or resources, with a joyful attitude.
- Find a way to give anonymously, focusing on the joy of blessing others.
- Express gratitude for the ability to give, recognizing it as a privilege.
- When you give, visualize the joy it brings to God.
Give cheerfully. Give from the heart.
Daily Bible Reading
Proverbs 1-3 (see How to Read the Bible in One Year or How to Read the Bible (for Beginners))
Cliff Lukaye
Cliff Lukaye is a believer, husband, father, pastor, DIYer, and writer living in Nairobi, Kenya. He is inspired by the beauty of God’s Word and the transformative power of faith and seeks to share reflections and insights that encourage others to experience a deeper relationship with God.
Additionally, he believes that every moment is an opportunity to praise God and live a life of worship. You can connect with him on his YouTube channel, [Pastor Cliff Lukaye], FaceBook page, [Pastor Cliff Lukaye], Instagram account, [Cliff Lukaye], and X handle, [CliffLukaye].
