May 31 - Giving

2 Corinthians 9:7 

7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Whether in tithes, sacrifices of time or energy, or in any other manner, we should give completely. The confusion in this "completeness" is that we perceive it as giving everything we have away. To clarify God's intentions for our giving as his children, we should give what we have decided through prayer and consideration. When we have discovered what we are being called to give, we should give our energy, time, dedication, financially...whatever it be, in completion. If God has called me to give $20 a week, then I should give that $20 completely, BUT also give my complete faith that God will provide for my family and that the $20 being given will be used to further his kingdom.

Did Christ give reluctantly or compulsively? No. 

If we are to live and model our lives in a Christlike manner, we should give whatever God has laid upon our hearts. In the case of Jesus' life, he was called to give his life up as a sacrifice for all. He entrusted his Father with his life and the result is that he saved those who believe from eternity in hell, but most importantly he has given us the power over sin and death.

Give.