2For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.
I used to have my cellphone around me at all times so that if anyone needed me for any reason, I would be available. My time was at their disposal. If on a Friday night I’m out with friends and one of my buddies comes up short on change I don’t mind spotting him a few. I hope to be the kind of person who is generous with their time money and towards people on all occasions.
But when God asks for my generosity, the first thought to cross my mind is not one of compliance- much less enthusiasm. And yet Paul speaks of a grace God had given Macedonian churches who “Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.” They had been so inspired by God that they longed to share in the privilege of giving.
One thing Paul does make clear is that it’s not a matter of abundance, or even sacrifice but of willingness.
God doesn’t want my money. He want’s my heart.
Giver of all things,
I ask for more of your will, for more of your desires. I struggle with an attitude of entitlement, so I confess that every good and perfect thing is from you. I want to receive your grace for giving so that I may give, even out of poverty; of my time, resources, and money.
I want to give because I have first received.
Lead me to a place where I can give out of desire and not necessity.
-Christian
Sixty-six books in a year 