Submit 4

2 Corinthians 9:7

Over the years I have been blessed with many gifts. Some have been expensive gifts – like a nice leather coat. Others were inexpensive – like a small tray big enough to hold a glass of milk and a few cookies. But I treasure them all.

The reason I treasure them is because of the truth of the old saying, “It isn’t the gift but the thought that counts.” These gifts are important to me because someone I love cared enough about me to give me the gift.

When we consider our relationship with God and we look at how we can submit to God we may wonder how we should express our commitment to God through financial gifts. In the second letter to the church at Corinth Paul addresses the attitude we should have. How much should we give? What should our attitude be? Why?

When giving to the church we may be intimidated by the people who have the financial ability to be extremely generous. Those who have the means to fund big projects, to finance major renovations, or simply present a fat check can make us feel that our gift is not valuable. On the other hand we may look down on those who are not able to give as much as we do, people who are struggling to make ends meet or who have jobs with a lower income.

But it is not the amount of money that is given that is important. What is important is that we first determine how much we are willing to give, and then give it faithfully and joyfully.

No matter what our financial means may be – a little or a lot – we are called on to express our submission to God, our faithfulness to God through tangible contributions. Whatever the dollar amount given it should be a genuine expression of our gratitude and trust in God.

Whatever the size of the gift, whatever the sacrifice you are willing to make, it is a measure of our faith and submission to God. Our gifts should be offered cheerfully and willingly.

DAILY CHALLENGE: How can you be sure to give cheerfully?