The Generous Person Shall Be Enriched
Generosity is a virtue that is often lauded and admired in our society. We are frequently encouraged to donate to charity or to causes we believe in. However, the motivation behind our giving is just as important as the act of giving itself. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, we are given a clear directive on approaching our giving.
2 Corinthians 9:7 AMPC – Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving].
The verse encourages us to give as we have made our minds and purposes. This means that our giving should be a deliberate and thoughtful act. We should not give simply because we feel obligated to do so or because others pressure us. Instead, we should give because we genuinely want to and believe in the cause we are supporting.
Furthermore, we are told that our giving should be done with a cheerful heart. God loves a cheerful giver who is joyous and prompt to give. This means that our giving should not be begrudging or done with reluctance. Instead, we should be happy and eager to give, knowing that our contribution can make a difference in someone’s life.
The Amplified Bible, Classic Edition, describes God’s love for a cheerful giver as one who takes pleasure in, prizes above other things and is unwilling to abandon or do without. This paints a beautiful picture of God’s attitude towards generosity. He values and treasures those who give cheerfully and will not abandon or forsake them.
This verse teaches us that giving should come from the heart. It should be a deliberate and thoughtful act with joy and enthusiasm. We should never give out of obligation or pressure but rather out of a genuine desire to help others. And when we give cheerfully, we are not only helping those in need, but we are also pleasing God and strengthening our character.
In a world that often emphasises material wealth and personal gain, it is easy to forget the importance of generosity. However, 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds us that giving is a virtuous act and a reflection of our faith and love for God. So, let us give with a cheerful heart and a willing spirit, knowing that our gifts can make a difference in the lives of others and bring joy to God’s heart.
Below is a list of my other favourite Scriptures about generosity:
Proverbs 11:25 AMPC – The liberal person shall be enriched, and he who waters shall himself be watered.
2 Corinthians 9:11 AMPC – Thus you will be enriched in all things, and every way so that you can be generous, and [your generosity as it is] administered by us will bring forth thanksgiving to God.
Luke 6:38 AMPC – Give, and [gifts] will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will they pour [a]into [the pouch formed by] the bosom [of your robe and used as a bag]. For with the measure you deal out [with the measure you use when you confer benefits on others], it will be measured back to you.
2 Corinthians 8:12 AMPC – For if the [eager] readiness to give is there, then it is acceptable and welcomed in proportion to what a person has, not according to what he does not have.
Psalm 112:5 AMPC – It is well with the man who deals generously and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice.
2 Corinthians 9:10 AMPC – And [God] Who provides seed for the sower and bread for eating will also provide and multiply your [resources for] sowing and increase the fruits of your righteousness [which manifests itself in active goodness, kindness, and charity].
2 Corinthians 9:6 AMPC [Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
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