Cheerful Givers

This year is tough, or so the experts say, and from a national standpoint, I have no reason to doubt the accuracy of their gloomy reports. But I have a good news reminder for God's Cheerful Givers.

2 Corinthians 9:6 tells us that God's people who are willing to trust Him and not the reports of so-called experts are not necessarily controlled by regular laws of economics. God's Word says, "He which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully."

There is nothing there to imply that good times or bad times influence God's promise. God's promise of bountiful reaping to those who practice bountiful sowing is solely dependent on God's character and ability to keep the promises He makes.

Verse 7 goes on to encourage us by saying, "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."

God does not want us to give out of guilt or even need. He wants us to give freely to Him as we purpose in our hearts to do so that we are free and joyful when we give. And what wonderful rewards await those who are His cheerful givers.

Thanks to so many of you who gave freely and cheerfully yesterday. Together, as you each purposed before God what He would have you give, you gave $1291.00 for our bus children, over $1800.00 toward our goal of $9000.00 for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, and nearly $7000.00 in General fund giving. The Bible says that God loved you very much yesterday as you so freely and joyously give.

It is refreshing to know that Christians can trust God and give even in tough times. I can promise you that He will provide and reward those who trust Him when circumstances seek to distract us from trusting anyone or anything at all.

Thank you so much. You are a blessing and an encouragement to me and I love you all. Please continue to pray. We are so in need of revival in our world. Pray and do not stop praying until God sends it. Be faithful. He will send it.

In His Love
Walter