Cheerful Giver

When my husband and I were about to have our first little girl, I was brushing my teeth before going to the hospital when I looked up and noticed a gigantic water leak in our ceiling.  Of course, I went in total panic mode because I knew we didn’t have money for a new roof. 

My husband called his dad to explain our dilemma and ask to borrow money.  Without hesitation, he said, “Of course, but here is the deal. I don’t want you to pay me back until you’re absolutely ready to do so.”  It took us a long time to save up that money to pay him back.  Looking back, I wonder if he even thought we would actually pay him back.  

Through that, my father-in-law taught me what being a cheerful giver is all about.  He gave us money when we desperately needed it freely and without expectations.  2 Corinthians 9:6-7 says, “…whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”  

I know times are tough right now and there are so many needs all around us, and I wonder if I am holding my possessions too tightly.