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Sabbath School

First and Second Corinthians 

Authentic Christian Ministry

Lesson 11 - Tuesday

Giving With a Willing Heart

“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7

What does this passage teach us about giving? God cares about the heart behind the offering. An offering should not be something we give because we feel pressured, guilty, or forced. God desires us to give willingly and joyfully because we recognize His goodness and want to support His work.

Our faithfulness in tithes and offerings should not depend on how much money we have. Whether we have plenty or very little, God calls us to be faithful with what He has entrusted to us. Giving is an opportunity to demonstrate that we trust God rather than our possessions.

But sometimes we have reasons for holding back. We may tell ourselves, “I can't afford it,” “I'll give later,” “Someone else can give,” or “I need this for myself.” Sometimes those concerns are legitimate, but they can also become excuses that keep us from giving what we know we can give.

The Cross gives us something important to think about. Jesus did not hold anything back when He gave Himself for us. His sacrifice challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are we giving God what is left over, or are we intentionally setting aside what belongs to Him?

God isn't asking us to give what we don't have. He is asking us to be faithful with what we do have. The real question is not, “How much can I keep?” but “How can I faithfully honor God with what He has placed in my hands?”

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for every blessing You have placed in our lives. Thank You especially for Jesus, who gave Himself completely for our salvation.

Help us to be faithful in our tithes and offerings, whether we have much or little. Forgive us when we allow fear, selfishness, or excuses to keep us from giving what we know we can give.

Give us generous and cheerful hearts. Help us trust You with our resources and remember that everything we have ultimately comes from You. May our giving become an expression of our love, gratitude, and faith.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.


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