Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7
This verse in 2 Corinthians tells us that God loves a cheerful giver. God wants us to give to our church, and to others freely so that we might experience the true joy of giving, and sharing with those around us.
I truly believe that not only does God love a cheerful giver, but that the act of giving will also make you more cheerful! When you give you experience the true joy of knowing you’ve made a positive impact on someone’s life, and you acknowledge that there is something more important out there than money or material things. Hording everything you earn won’t make you happy. True happiness comes through knowing Jesus Christ, and through living more like him – in an unselfish, caring and loving manner.
So next time you’re thinking about whether or not you should give, remember. Giving makes you happier, and makes you a more un-selfish and caring person. Food for thought.
I have a theory that sometimes it is easier to successfully benefit someone else by doing something good for them than it is to benefit oneself when one’s needs are already met. For example, right now I’m bored and not in the mood to do anything. I can unsuccessfully try to cure my boredom by watching TV (which I will not enjoy given my current mood), or I can use my time to do the dishes, something that will make my wife happy.
More generally, This theory fits nicely with various passages (Ps. 1:3, Ps. 37:4, and Matt. 5:6): You get your way if your will is conformed to God’s (Don’t take that statement too far though). You will be successful if you do what God wants you to do. You will have what you desire if you desire God.
Anywho, on the subject of generosity with material possessions, given that it is better to obey than to sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22) and that it is stealing to intentionally fail to pay back those whom we owe something to, should we focus on paying off debt (if we are in debt) prior to giving generously?