Bible reading: 2 Corinthians 9:7 “You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.'”
Giving has become a sensitive topic lately, as many Christians have experienced coercion to give more than they are willing to, especially within the church. Unfortunately, some spiritual leaders have employed ungodly tactics like manipulation and distorting the word of God to persuade their congregations that a certain amount or more is necessary to be considered a good Christian or to receive God’s blessings. Tragically, such tactics can lead to negative consequences, causing individuals to resent the church or Christianity. I once heard a spiritual leader preach that if the amount you plan to give doesn’t cause discomfort or resistance, it isn’t enough. But how can one freely give when they feel resistance? It is practically impossible! This is why studying the word of God for ourselves is crucial, enabling us to discern between true and false teachings.
Indeed, the word of God encourages us to give to those in need and to be generous, but it must always come from our own free will. We should genuinely desire to give, not feel pressured into it. When giving is not from our hearts, it is no longer acceptable to God (1 Samuel 16:7). We must remember that God judges our hearts above all else. Therefore, it is better to cheerfully give less than to grudgingly give more. Giving should be a source of joy. Assisting others in their time of need is an incredible experience, instilling a sense of purpose within society. However, if our giving lacks sincerity, not only will we feel devoid of joy, but we may also become resentful.
Ironically, the word of God advises us not to accept things from individuals who do not give wholeheartedly (Proverbs 23:6-8). It says, “Don’t eat with people who are stingy; don’t desire their delicacies. They are always thinking about how much it costs. ‘Eat and drink,’ they say, but they don’t mean it. You will throw up what little you’ve eaten, and your compliments will be wasted.” Therefore, it’s all about finding balance. We should aspire to be generous givers, but God only expects us to give out of what we have (2 Corinthians 8:12) and to do so cheerfully.
Now, let’s address the other side of the coin. If you find yourself leaning towards stinginess and are struggling to give, even though you know you have the means to do so, it’s important to reflect on the reasons behind this behaviour. It could be due to negative experiences in the past or a lack of trust in God’s continuous provision. In such cases, I encourage you to turn to prayer. Ask God to soften your heart and increase your willingness to give to those in need. Meditate on God’s promises to those who give freely (there are many), and allow those passages to strengthen your faith in God’s ability to provide for you.
Remember, freely giving is a beautiful act that should bring joy and fulfilment. May we approach it with a balanced perspective, guided by the wisdom of God’s word.
