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. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

One of the things that makes this verse so compelling is that it doesn’t just instruct us on what to give, but it tells us how to give. The Apostle Paul is teaching us that our generosity actually has more to do with our heart and our attitude than it does with dollar amounts or percentages. I would go so far as to say that this verse is telling us God will do more with $1 given through a generous spirit than he will with $1,000 given reluctantly or with expectation. Although the Bible is clear that the baseline of our giving should be the tithe, this verse reveals that the point in returning the tithe is not for us to check off another box; the point is to keep our hearts consistently aligned with God. In other words, it is not the amount that determines God's blessing but the heart.

While this verse reveals that our generosity is a direct reflection of our heart, it is also true that consistent giving can actually develop a spirit of generosity within us. Check out these real-life testimonies that proves just that!

  • "When it seemed the monthly numbers dwindled, we always had what we needed. I will be tithing and giving to God first for the rest of my life!" ~Stacey

  • “I’ve broken addictions and seen God’s blessings pour out like the flood gates were opened. All because I listened to Pastor Stu and stepped out in my faith. It was scary, but I’ve always had enough.” ~Jared

  • “My wife and I have noticed an increase in our finances and not living down to our last dollar. It didn’t happen in the first 30 days but we made a choice to give God his part and keep the faith no matter what happens." ~Jeffrey