Then the people rejoiced because they had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the LORD. David the king also rejoiced greatly.
1 Chronicles 29:9
Oh that I could live amongst a people who rejoice when it is time to give! Indeed, rejoicing comes from a heart that freely gives unto You, Lord, recognizing that it comes from You in the first place. I pray today that You would give me joy not only when I give, but also to see others give. Show me the hearts of the givers so that I am not so consumed with how much they gave but instead overwhelmed by their heart’s willingness to give. I live in a world where people are placed on a pedestal based upon how much they give rather than their heart in the matter. Yet, I realize that it is not the amount that counts. It is the fact that they “had given willingly.” It is about giving with a whole heart. It is not about being seen or lauded based upon what you give. It is about doing so with our whole heart. Whether it is our time, our talent or our treasure, You seek a people who willingly lay it on the alter before You in praise. It is truly about offering it freely to You as a sign of our commitment. Lord, I realize that only by faith will Your kingdom be built. You do not need our resources. Nor do You truly need what we give. Inevitably it is all You. Only You can do it. My giving is a sign of my love for You. And seeing others give is a sign of their love. So today, as I give of myself , open my eyes to see the sacrifice of others and move on my heart to rejoice in it, knowing that You have touched them even as You have touched me. I love You, Lord and worship You! Thank You for all You have given me!