We are often asked to give. Many causes are brought to our attention on almost a daily basis. Some speak of ‘donor fatigue’ because of the constant demands that are put upon us to support this or that charity or worthy cause.
Of course, most of us are of limited means and cannot support everything that we would like. That’s just the way it is. But what is important is the way we support the things that we do.
It’s easy to just put our lose change in the tin being shaken in front of us. That kind of giving is without thought, often just to have the tin removed from us or to not appear to be mean spirited.
God does want us to consider our giving so that, when we give, it is from a purposeful heart and is done cheerfully and willingly. This is particularly true when we give to God, usually by way of an offering of some kind.
The ancient Israelites, who were commanded to give, were offensive to God inasmuch as, when they gave, they gave from the herd the lame, the sick and the blind (Malachi 1:8). Clearly they did not have the right approach in their giving!
So how should we give? As we are able, as we have purposed in our hearts and cheerfully!
Father in Heaven, thank you for giving me a generous heart like yours. In comparison with many in this world I am rich. Let me be purposeful in my giving and give with a cheerful heart. So let me reflect the love that you have for all mankind.