Here’s a little snack: The complete verse says, “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”
This verse, in and of itself has nothing to do with the amount of a gift but rather the heart condition of the giver. In fact, twice in this verse do we see that word, “give-r” and never do we see a dollar sign or a moving toward the amount of the gift. The giver is the focal point of this verse.
Many have come to me over the years asking me to help them pray about the amount of their giving. To which I might reply, “Friend, there is nothing more to pray about.” You see, the “tithe” (10 percent of one’s gross income) has already been established. There is nothing to consider when figuring the amount to be given to the local church. However, disciples pray often for one another’s heart condition when giving. The emotion of the giver is of great importance.
“…so let him give”. Notice that the weight of our giving is on us, the giver. God does not force His hand into our purses. Likewise, God will never force His blessings upon us either. The choice is ours to be a giver or to withhold from God that which is His.
“…so let him give”. The idea behind a gift is it is freely bestowed. A gift with a bill attached to it is not a gift but rather a service rendered for the purpose of hire. However, the tithe, though to be given obediently, is to be given freely. The emotion of our heart when giving will determine if it was for hire or as a gift.
Should a disciple pray about their giving? Absolutely! In fact, may I encourage you to lay hands on your tithe, each and every time you give, and ask God to receive it cheerfully, as you give it cheerfully.
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