7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

This is an interesting principle that goes beyond the letter of the law. It’s the attitude behind that law that matters. If you’re not happy about what you’re giving, don’t do it, which is pretty straight forward. The teaching goes against the grain of those people who say the church only wants your money. It’s not our money anyhow; we’re just stewards of it.

I think this would be an interesting exercise. Pretend you’re going to give to your church or an external ministry. What would be the dollar amount that would make you wince if you told your spouse you were going to give extra this month? We all have that figure if we stop to survey our income, expenses, bank accounts, and giving. Then it’s a matter of dialing back that amount and giving. Try it an let me know where the cheerful part fades away and becomes grudging. What is that figure?