How can we cultivate a heart that is compelled to give generously? The Call to Willing-Hearted Giving (Exodus 35:5) “Take from among you an offering to the LORD. Whoever has a willing heart, let him bring the LORD’s offering…” The tabernacle project was funded not by taxes or pressure, but by hearts stirred by God. That same principle stands today: generosity flows from willingness birthed by Him. Recognize the Source of Everything We Have • “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1) • “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17) When we see possessions as entrusted—not owned—open hands become natural. Rehearse God’s Saving Work • Israel gave after deliverance from Egypt. • We give after a greater deliverance: “Though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor” (2 Corinthians 8:9). Marveling at redemption loosens our grip on temporary treasures. Invite the Spirit to Shape the Heart “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you” (Ezekiel 36:26). As we yield to the Spirit, generosity—part of the fruit of the Spirit’s love (Galatians 5:22)—grows organically. Practice Daily Gratitude • List three blessings each morning. • Thank God aloud during routine tasks. • Share testimonies of His provision with family or friends. Gratitude trains the soul to notice abundance rather than scarcity (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Plan Your Giving “On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of money in keeping with his income” (1 Colossians 16:2). • Budget generosity first, not last. • Automate recurring gifts when possible. • Keep a “seed fund” envelope for spontaneous needs. Focus on Willingness, Not Amount “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). God weighs the heart behind the gift more than the size of the gift. Give as an Act of Worship “I have received full payment…They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God” (Philippians 4:18). Generosity is a sacrifice of praise, parallel to “the fruit of lips” (Hebrews 13:15-16). Watch the Joy Multiply “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). • Joy in knowing God’s pleasure • Joy in meeting real needs • Joy in partnering with eternal work Practical Steps for This Week 1. Read Exodus 35–36 and note every mention of “willing” or “stirred” hearts. 2. Inventory God’s recent provisions; thank Him for each. 3. Choose one ministry or person to bless financially before week’s end. 4. Share the story with a friend, encouraging them to do likewise. As willing hearts respond to God’s goodness, generosity ceases to be a duty and becomes a delightful overflow of worship. |
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