7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.”[c]

Here Paul quotes a Old Testament scripture, "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." But it took a little research to find out just what Paul was quoting. Paul is quoting Proverbs 22:8. But when you turn to Proverbs 22:8 you won't find this quote.

Bible gateway.com includes this footnote.

Footnotes:

22:8 The Greek version includes an additional proverb: God blesses a man who gives cheerfully, / but his worthless deeds will come to an end. Compare 2 Cor 9:7.

Apparently Paul knew this. And apparently Paul believed it. I do to! Notice what type of person God blesses. The person who gives cheerfully.

This Sunday, New City Church is receiving a Thanksgiving Offering. This offering is for each family who worships at New City Church. This Sunday, you have the opportunity to give cheerfully. And, you get the opportunity to grow in your trust towards God. I see a promise in Paul's quote. I DON'T read, "God might bless." I read, "God blesses a man..." I completely trust that you will be blessed when you choose to give cheerfully.

It's up to you...
But I hope your giving makes you smile.
Blessings,
Pastor Matt