No. 268 - Giving with a Willing Heart

The Generosity of God’s Hands

Giving with a Willing Heart

Deuteronomy 15:10 (ESV)

"You shall give to him freely, and your heart shall not be grudging when you give to him, because for this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake." 

Starting Prayer

Dear Lord, open my heart to understand the true meaning of generosity. Help me to give freely and joyfully, just as You have given to me. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Background

Deuteronomy 15 discusses the Year of Release, where debts were forgiven every seven years, showing God's concern for the poor and the community's responsibility to help them. Verse 10 encourages the Israelites to give freely without a grudging heart, promising God's blessing in return. This verse concludes our week’s theme by focusing on the attitude behind our generosity. 

Be Encouraged

Giving with a willing heart is a reflection of God’s own generosity. When we help others, it should not be with a sense of obligation or resentment, but with joy and love. Imagine helping a friend in need and feeling genuinely happy about it. This is the attitude God desires from us. When we give freely, we not only help others but also align ourselves with God's will, leading to His blessings in our lives. 

Think about a time when you gave a gift to someone and saw their happiness. That joy is contagious and fulfilling. Proverbs 11:25 says, "Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered." When we give freely, we not only bring joy to others but also receive God's blessings in return. It’s a beautiful cycle of giving and receiving that enriches both the giver and the receiver. 

Application

Today's scripture encourages us to give with a willing heart. As Christians, we are called to reflect God's generosity in our actions. Hebrews 13:16 says, "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." Let us strive to give freely and joyfully, knowing that our actions please God and bring blessings. 

Consider how you can practice generosity in your daily life. It might be through donating to charity, for spreading the word of God, helping a neighbour, or simply offering a kind word to someone in need. Remember, it’s not just about the act of giving, but the heart behind it. Matthew 6:21 reminds us, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Let our hearts be full of love and generosity, reflecting God’s own heart. 

Invitation

If you have not yet committed your life to Christ, I invite you to experience His love and generosity. Please visit a nearby Church of Christ to learn more and find support in your walk with God. Begin your journey with faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of all past sins and be saved (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38).

I encourage you to put today’s message into practice. Let your generosity shine and share this message with your loved ones, spreading the love and blessings of God. 

Concluding Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me the importance of giving with a willing heart. Help me to reflect Your generosity in my actions and to give joyfully. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. 

I encourage you to share your thoughts on today's meditation with me so I know how you have received the message.

May the Lord bless your day. 

Theodore J. Quist

Evangelist

Church of Christ

Abokobi - Accra

Ghana

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