What does "freewill offering" in Deuteronomy 16:10 teach about our giving attitude? Setting the Scene Deuteronomy 16:10: “Then you are to celebrate the Feast of Weeks to the LORD your God with a freewill offering that you give in proportion to how the LORD your God has blessed you.” What is a “freewill offering”? • An offering not demanded by law, but prompted by personal desire to honor God (cf. Exodus 35:29). • Given voluntarily, without external compulsion or set amount. • Flowing from gratitude for God’s blessings rather than fear of obligation. Key Attitudes Highlighted • Grateful — We give “in proportion to how the LORD…has blessed you,” recognizing every good thing comes from Him (James 1:17). • Voluntary — The gift arises from the heart, not pressure (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Joyful — Celebrated during a feast; giving is woven into worship and rejoicing (Deuteronomy 16:11). • Generous — The measure of blessing becomes the measure of generosity (Proverbs 3:9). • God-focused — The offering is “to the LORD,” keeping Him, not self, at the center (Psalm 54:6). • Faith-filled — Trusts that the God who blessed before will continue to supply (Malachi 3:10). Practical Takeaways for Today • Pause and count tangible and spiritual blessings; let gratitude set the tone. • Decide the gift privately with God, free from peer or institutional pressure. • Link giving to worship—whether in church, at home, or in community celebration. • Let generosity rise as blessings rise; avoid static percentages that ignore God’s ongoing provision. • Give cheerfully, expecting God’s continued faithfulness (Luke 6:38). Scripture Echoes • Exodus 25:2 — “Let every man whose heart moves him make an offering.” • Psalm 110:3 — “Your people shall be willing in the day of Your power.” • 2 Corinthians 9:7 — “God loves a cheerful giver.” |
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