A joyful and generous spirit is encouraged throughout Scripture, as seen in the exhortation to give cheerfully, not reluctantly, in 2 Corinthians 9:7. The apostle Paul also instructs believers to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in every circumstance, as recorded in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. The wisdom literature, such as Proverbs 17:22, notes the healing effects of a cheerful heart, while James 1:17 reminds us that every good gift comes from above, prompting gratitude and joy. Additionally, Proverbs 15:13 highlights the contagious nature of a cheerful spirit, reflecting the overall biblical emphasis on cultivating a positive and thankful attitude.
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Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.
Rejoice at all times. Pray without ceasing. Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, with whom there is no change or shifting shadow.
A joyful heart makes a cheerful countenance, but sorrow of the heart crushes the spirit.
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “He has scattered abroad His gifts to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.”
All the days of the oppressed are bad, but a cheerful heart has a continual feast.