Scripture Reading
2 Corinthians 9:7
Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Reflection
God loves a cheerful giver — the Greek word is hilaros, the root of our word hilarious. There is a kind of giving that is so free, so joy-filled, so uncalculating that it almost looks irrational to onlookers. This is the giving that reflects the character of God himself, who gave his own Son with extravagant, uncalculating love. Giving reluctantly or under compulsion misses the whole spirit of it. Give something today — time, money, attention, kindness — from a genuinely glad heart.
Prayer for Today
O God, my Strength, There are so many times throughout the day when I am battling my anger. Sometimes it is the kids, sometimes a co-worker, sometimes the driver next to me who forgets to signal. Help me, Lord. I need a spirit of grace and not to be so
overcome by impatience and anger. Set me free, Lord. Give me the self-control and discipline I need to keep from bursting out. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.
overcome by impatience and anger. Set me free, Lord. Give me the self-control and discipline I need to keep from bursting out. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.
Amen.