Not every giver is cheerful and not every gift is generous
“God loves a cheerful giver.” It’s one of those familiar phrases we hear so often that we almost wonder whether it only sounds like Scripture—like “God helps those who help themselves” or “Cleanliness is next to godliness.” But this one is the real thing. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul writes, “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.” Notice what Paul does not say. He does not simply say, “God loves a giver.” He specifically says a “cheerful” giver. If I pay my ...
