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JOYFUL GIVING

Yesterday we learned that it pleases God when we accept all He gives us with joyful hearts. He wants to go even further. He wants us to share in the joy it brings Him to give it to us.

You see, it is not a pain for God to bless us. He loves giving us plenty of good things! I love the description of God's giving heart in Deuteronomy 30: "For the Lord will again take delight in prospering you, as he took delight in your fathers" (Deuteronomy 30:9, ESV). In fact, God's purpose through Jesus Christ is to give us abundant life. "My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life" (John 10:10, NLT). God wants you to share in this joy.

The same joy that God generates by giving us blessings is available to you. God is so serious about teaching us about the joy of giving that He provides an incentive. "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. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others" (2 Corinthians 9:7, NLT). 

How does it make you feel when you are generous to others?

Have you ever experienced the joy of God when you receive blessings from Him? 

Let us find joy in being generous. God's joy is more abundant as you’re giving! "You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive'" (Acts 20:35, NLT).