Studies

Treasure box

2 Corinthians 9:7
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.

Cheerful giver in other versions of the Bible =
 - joyous giver (AMP)
 - one who gives gladly (GN)
 - one who loves to give (CEV)
 - a ready or prompt giver (BASIC)
 - the giver who delights in giving (MSG)

One of the best examples of cheerful giving in my life is my daughter, Juniper

Here is a illustration of what I mean:

Juniper, just finished kindergarden this year - she has work very hard in reading, writing, etc.
I don't remember getting as much homework (or any homework) has she had (I can not say "back in my day...")

To help with keep the class motivated, the teacher has what they call "treasurer box Fridays"
If you work hard and do what is required, you get to prick a prize from the box
If do what is required and the extra assignments, you get to pick an extra special prize

Juniper gets up the mornings and says "is it Friday yet?" - does the happy dance

One particular Friday - extra excited, came back from work that evening, showed her treauser to me
Worked hard all week, including bonus homework, she picked it to give it to me
I felt so greatful, honored as a father... and few moments later, convicted
Am I this excited to give to my father in heaven? Do I jump out of bed and say "yes, it is Sunday (or another day)! I get to give God!"? No
She does this quite often for her sister, her mother, and I.

I don't even remember what she gave me, I think that is the whole point
I do remember the she heart in giving

As we give, lets be cheeful but there are some many things to be cheerful for

Prayer:

God are the ultimate cheerful giver
Even through we were a long way off, you cheerfully leaped to your feet to offer us your grace

You use children and others in our life to be an example
Teach us how to be a cheerful giver

Thank you for the opportunity to give cheerfully today