Session 16

Giving Is More Fun Than Receiving

From Finding Your Financial Path

Have you ever been so excited about finding the perfect present that you couldn’t wait to give it? Maybe it was the engagement ring that felt like it was burning a hole in your pocket. Maybe it was the toy you couldn’t wait for your child to discover under the tree on Christmas morning.

Whatever the perfect gift was, you got excited because you loved the recipient and you knew the gift would make him or her happy.

The reasons we enjoy giving to our loved ones are the same reasons we enjoy giving to God. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

If you want to get excited about giving, get to know Jesus. As we get to know Him, we grow in love for Him. Instead of giving on a whim or because we feel like we have to, we find ourselves thinking about what would make God happy. And when we picture His excited response, we become giddy about giving our gift.

Think About:
1. When was the last time you were excited to give someone a present? What did you look forward to most about that experience?
2. Do you think giving is better than receiving? Why or why not?
3. What is the next step God has called you to take in giving?

Pray:
Jesus, You gave me the ultimate gift—the gift of salvation! May the gratitude that I have for that gift overflow into every area of my life.