Have you ever participated in a service project grudgingly or reluctantly provided some assistance to a person in need, all the while thinking, “I wish I didn’t have to do this?” I have. Usually, I get into the spirit of things fairly quickly and end up grateful for the opportunity to serve. And that’s a good thing, because as the apostle Paul taught, our attitude matters.
Writing to church members in Corinth, Paul said that two of his associates would visit them soon to organize a fundraising effort for people in need. He wanted them to be generous, not impractically generous, but as generous as they could reasonably be. But besides getting the donation amount right, he wanted them to get their hearts right. “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give, not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
This counsel is consistent with Mormon’s warning that if a person gives a gift grudgingly, “it is counted unto him the same as if he had retained the gift” (Moroni 7:8). I don’t think Mormon is describing some heavenly ledger in which an angel chooses not to give us credit for our good deed because we had a bad attitude. I think he’s saying that we’re missing out on the joy and growth of giving when we refuse to actually enjoy it! So give and serve, and make an effort to overcome any initial resistance you may have, because the experience can be amazing if you’re willing to put your heart into it.
In this week’s Come Follow Me lesson, there’s an additional observation that can help us in this process: “Whatever forms our sacrifices take, it’s worth examining our motivations for giving. Are our sacrifices expressions of love? After all, it’s love that makes a giver cheerful.” When we’re struggling to be cheerful in our giving, maybe it’s worth thinking about the recipients, empathizing with them, and considering how much joy our offering is giving to them.
By the way, this principle applies not only to charitable contributions and organized service projects but also to our daily acts of service to one another. Doing the dishes, helping a child with homework, and taking time to listen are all small but important acts of giving. Don’t miss out on the joy you can find in these simple gifts.
Today, I will be a cheerful giver. I will remember that my attitude greatly affects the benefit I derive from my gifts and acts of service. I will strive to overcome any reluctance I may feel, so that I can fully enjoy the experience.
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