Daily Devo

Sacrificing Generously

By: Wendy Sanders

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11:24-25

God's Word says we are to give to Him (to the Church) first, but there are many other instructions about giving in scripture. For example, God tells us to share what we have, give to the poor, and to give cheerfully and generously. I find it interesting that God’s word never attaches a dollar amount to our giving. I believe if God gave us a number, we would probably view that as our minimum requirement. Then, if we gave over and beyond that amount, we could easily become prideful. On the other hand, if we gave below that amount, it might cause us to feel guilty or condemned. I love how God knows how we think, so He says no matter how much or how little we give, it must always be a matter of the heart.

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7 (ESV)

In my life, I've had seasons where I was able to give plenty and be a blessing to others. But there were other seasons where I was on the receiving end of someone's blessing. No matter which season you are in, know that God asks us to share what we have cheerfully. Does giving require sacrifice? Yes, but the blessing we'll receive is much more than the sacrifice. God's Word also says that our sacrificial giving pleases Him.

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. Hebrews 13:16

In the gospels, we find examples of Jesus giving sacrificially and generously. He fed those who were hungry, He was always willing to help the underprivileged and needy, and He invested His time and energy in discipleship. When Christ was exhausted, He took time to pray for and with others as He healed them spiritually and physically. Before He went to the cross, He sacrificed His last few hours on earth to spend time alone with His disciples. Jesus always shared what God had given Him with others, and He always gave from His heart, willingly, cheerfully, and sacrificially.

Christ follower, be a cheerful, generous giver with a heart willing to give to the Lord's work!