There’s nothing worse than receiving a gift from someone who clearly didn’t want to give it. Maybe they felt obligated, or perhaps they were simply following the old “reciprocal gift” rule—giving something back just because they felt they had to. Whatever the reason, their attitude makes the gesture feel empty, leaving you feeling like an obligation rather than a blessing.
God cares just as much about the attitude behind our giving as He does about the gift itself. It’s not just about how much we put in the offering plate or how generous we are with our time and skills—it’s about the heart behind it.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 says:
“Remember, a stingy planter gets a stingy crop; a lavish planter gets a lavish crop. I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting. God loves it when the giver delights in the giving.” (The Message)
I love how The Message Bible puts it: “A stingy planter gets a stingy crop; a lavish planter gets a lavish crop.” Other translations, like the NIV and NASB, say it in a more formal way: “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly.” But The Message gets straight to the point—God cares about our heart’s attitude.
Everything we do for Him—whether it’s with our finances, time, or skills—matters to Him, but our motivation matters even more.
Paul understood this so well that he sent a team ahead to Corinth to help the church prepare their hearts and their offering, ensuring they could give with the right spirit.
So when there’s an opportunity to give above your usual offering—whether to missions or your local church—take time to seek the Lord. Ask Him what He wants you to give, and prepare your heart in advance. That way, you won’t feel pressured or resentful, but instead, you’ll give with joy, knowing your offering will bless others.
Listen to God, prepare your gift with a willing heart, and give joyfully—because not only will your offering enrich the lives of others, but even more importantly, it will be pleasing to God.
©2025 Katherine Walden
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