How Should I Give?

When it comes to giving, God is much more interested in what’s in your heart than what’s in your wallet. What he really wants is your willingness—not your wealth. The Bible says,

“You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.’”
– 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT)

This verse offers four key heart attitudes you should have when you give.

Give Thoughtfully

Don’t give impulsively. The most spiritual kind of giving is when you think about it, pray about it, and then make up your mind about it. God wants your giving to be important and meaningful in your life—so he wants you to plan for it.

Give Enthusiastically

Don’t just think, “I have to give!” Give because you know God’s going to do something big in your heart when you become a generous person.

Give Voluntarily

Any time someone pressures you to give, don’t do it. God’s not going to bless that kind of giving anyway. But when you feel God challenging you to give, that’s the time to give generously and voluntarily!

Give Cheerfully

Give with joy! One of the Greek words for “offering” has the same root as the word “hilarious.” God wants you to enjoy giving to Him and to others.