The Measure of Gratitude!

“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us, your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:11

Many people have heard the Scripture that states, “God loveth a cheerful giver,” and conclude we should have a smile on our face when the offering plate is passed at church. But this verse encompasses so much more than that. Being a cheerful giver begins by understanding that God is the Provider of everything.

Paul took an offering for distressed believers in Jerusalem, and he encouraged believers in Corinth to participate generously. He assured them that the Lord would give back far more than they gave, but he didn’t promise a lavish lifestyle. They would be enriched so that they could use their increased resources to help more people.

Luke 6:38 says, Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure, you use it will be measured back to you.”

Even so, that wasn’t the endgame. Their generosity would cause the recipients to give thanks to God, thus bringing glory to Him. Whether it’s giving money or time to someone else, every generosity that we do will always serve as a healing balm to the brokenhearted. Therefore, touch someone’s heart with your kindness and be the cheerful giver.

Don’t wait till the season of Thanksgiving to give thanks for God’s goodness to us. When we consider all the “bountifulness” the Lord provides, it should lead us to offer thanks to God. Let’s add another dimension to the season by being gracious to those in need. Let’s give them a reason to thank God for what He’s doing for them through us. Thanksgiving should lead to thanks living. Proverbs 22:9 says, “Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed because they share bread with the poor.”

Prayer:
1. Father, thank You for all the people You have used to bless my life, both financially and spiritually.
2. Help me, oh Lord, to be a true cheerful giver in your vineyard in Jesus’ name. Amen