Deuteronomy 16:17, "Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the Lord your God has blessed you." 2 Corinthians 9:7, "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."

Think

People get funny when it comes to money. Why? Because when it comes to our finances, we often feel vulnerable. And when it comes to the topic of giving, we not only feel vulnerable, we often feel hesitant. We start thinking: "What if I get laid off?" "What if my car breaks down?" What if...?  What if...?  What if...?  However, this "what if" mentality comes from placing trust in an economy that changes rather than the God who steadfastly remains the same. When we pursue God's vision for our lives and trust Him with everything – including our finances – our "what if" can become "why not?!" Because with God all things are possible and His provision is unending. If our hearts truly beat fast for God, then they beat fast for the local church. There are people all around us who are facing eternal separation from God. Therefore, we shouldn't be hesitant to give to the institution God has built to reach them; we should be afraid not to. And where there is a God-given vision, there is supernatural provision. Today's Scripture says God loves a cheerful – not fearful – giver. This means we don't give to get, we get to give! Generosity is not only bringing back to God what is rightfully His; it's giving above and beyond. It's partnering with the vision of extending the church's reach and living in the sweet spot of God's blessing.

Act

Find a quiet spot today and count your blessings. Think back over the past several months and remember how God blessed you with both the tangible and intangible.

Pray

God, thank You for Your generosity and loving kindness. Today as I praise You wholeheartedly, I lift up Psalm 117:12-14: "How can I repay the Lord for all His goodness to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all His people."