EXODUS 25:1-2: Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying: “Speak to the children of Israel, that they
bring Me an offering. From everyone who gives it willingly with his heart you shall take My offering. ”
A careless Scot once tossed a crown into the collection plate thinking it was a penny. When he saw
his mistake, he asked to have it back. The deacon refused, and then the Scot grunted, “Aweel, aweel,
I’ll get credit for it in heaven.” The deacon responded, “Na, na, ye’ll get credit for the penny.”
God makes it clear that the only gifts He desires are those given with a willing heart. When He gave
the instructions for building His tabernacle, He specifically stated that Moses was to accept building
materials only from the one “who gives it willingly with his heart.”
This same truth is repeated in 2 Corinthians 9:7: “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart,
not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” The Greek word translated “cheerful” is
the root for the English word “hilarious.” Giving to God is not just a “good” feeling; it’s an overflowing,
boisterous, lively experience.
Our offering made to God is a responsibility (1 Cor. 16:2), but it’s much more. It’s a joy that comes
close to ecstasy. To return even a small amount to God, who gave everything to us, is cause for
rejoicing.
Look for an opportunity today to give to God. Whether you give your time, your talent or your material
resources, everything given with an attitude of joyful will ingness is always acceptable to God.
THE ATTITUDE OF THE GIVER IS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE GIFT