In the Pastor letter, Bruce highlighted 2 Corinthians 9:7. It is our desire that God works within you to be the “cheerful giver that He prizes.” In order to get to this place, here are a few helpful tips inspired by writer/Pastor Charles Swindoll:

1. Reflect on God’s gifts to you

Hasn’t He been good? Better than we deserve. Sufficient food, clothing, and shelter. Close friends. A vibrant church family... and so much more.

2. Remind yourself of His promises regarding generosity

Call to mind a few biblical principles that promise the benefits of sowing bountifully. Bumper crops, don’t forget, are God’s specialty.

3. Examine your heart

Nobody but you can do this. Open that private vault and ask several hard questions like:

• Is my giving proportionate to my income?
• Am I motivated by guilt ... or by contagious joy?
• Would my giving be a model for others or my children to follow?
• Am I committed to investing consistently and generously for Christ and His Kingdom?
• Have I prayed about giving... or am I just an impulsive responder?
  

4. Trust God to honor consistent generosity

Here’s the big step, but it’s essential. Go for it! Release your restraint – when you really believe God is leading you to make a significant contribution – and develop the habit of generosity. We seriously doubt that generosity has ever hurt many people!