Daily Bible Verse - 11/21/2007 - 2 Corinthians 9:7

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

2 Corinthians 9:7

Commentary Why is giving so important? In Paul's words, it tests the sincerity of our love for God and others (8:7, 8). To paraphrase the words of Christ (Matt. 6:19-21), how we handle material wealth is a barometer of our spiritual health.
What will be the results of our giving? We should not give primarily to get, but Paul makes it clear that giving does lead to abundance. Cheerful givers experience God's love in a special way (9:7). They enjoy the spiritual blessing of participating in a rich harvest of righteousness (9:10).

Radmacher, E. D., Allen, R. B., & House, H. W. (1999). Nelson's new illustrated Bible commentary (2 Co 9:10). Nashville: T. Nelson Publishers.

Daily Bible Verse - 11/20/2007 - Proverbs 19:17

He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done.

He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.

One who is gracious to a poor man lends to the LORD, And He will repay him for his good deed.

Proverbs 19:17

Commentary

Charity to the poor and needy is perceived in this verse as a lending to God. If one is to lend to anyone, then lend to Him. He will repay. Yahweh's concern for the poor is well-attested in Scripture (e.g., Deut. 10:18, 19).

Radmacher, E. D., Allen, R. B., & House, H. W. (1999). Nelson's new illustrated Bible commentary (Pr 19:17). Nashville: T. Nelson Publishers.