‘Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion.’ (2 Corinthians 9:6, NIV)

Throughout this year’s Self-Denial Appeal, we have seen some incredible work happening in countries around the world. This work has been able to happen because of the giving through this appeal and God multiplying the impact of those gifts.

When we give, God can give those gifts wings and turn them into much more than they were. God doesn’t look at the sums of money, time or energy given, but he looks at the heart of the givers.

This week’s verse is all about making sure that our giving is not because we feel like we should but because we want to. God sees our heart and when our giving is the overflow of his love for us, he blesses and uses it in amazing ways.

When we think about giving, we often think only about money. And while this appeal has a focus on money and the impact it has, it’s also about giving our time, our energy, the talents we have and the people God has made us to be. When we offer those gifts to God, he uses them beyond what we can ever imagine. He gives those gifts wings.

• What is God placing on your heart to give?
• How could you contribute to the Self-Denial Appeal?
• How could you give your gifts for God to use in your community?

Use one hour of your time this week to help someone in your community.

God, thank you for creating me. I pray that you would use the gifts you have given me to show love to others. Help me to give from my heart however that looks. Amen.