The Cheerful and Giving Spirit

Is this a time of plenty for you? Or is it a season of limited resources and trials? Sometimes we think generosity is only for those who have extra, but the Bible is full of stories of those who gave out of lack. The boy who offered a small lunch to Jesus, the widow who shared her last bit of bread with Elijah, and another widow who gave her two mites at the temple treasury. The amount of our gifts may be small, but they can appear large in the eyes of God when given sacrificially.

When we give cheerfully, even in times of scarcity, we are declaring that God is our provider, and his grace is sufficient for all our needs. Even when we experience lack, he comes through, and as Christians, we want to be gracious givers inspired by God’s grace and goodness towards us. A truth we read throughout the scriptures is God’s constant provision for his children as Jehovah Jireh. This Hebrew name declares God’s character as a faithful provider who meets the needs of his people, past, present, and future.

When life is hard, can you give like the widow gave money in an intentional and sacrificial way? What are some ways you can give cheerfully with your time and resources to make an impact for the kingdom of God? As a way of recognizing that everything is a gift from God, our family serves the needy at multiple soup kitchens, and through these experiences, the Lord continues to teach us about his unfailing compassion and heart for the vulnerable. Shining a light on giving to others cheerfully becomes transformative, so that the joy of our salvation overflows into the joy of giving.

Dear Jesus, thank you for always pouring out your love and blessings upon us. We long to open our eyes to your faithful provision. Forgive me when I struggle to give willingly of my resources, and help me to give cheerfully as I trust in your goodness and grace. You are forever our provider, and I praise you with a cheerful and giving heart. In Jesus’s name, Amen.

Throughout this day: listen to Kari Jobe’s powerful song: The Cause of Christ