Week 51
Willingness
For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.
2 Corinthians 8:12
A willing heart wants to see things work. It responds to problematic situations with efforts to make things better. A willful heart is the opposite. It insists on things going its way before taking actions. Willingness is a readiness to be obedient. Willfulness is a position of entitlement and no compromise. In Karen soccer tournaments, willingness plays soccer in the field and willfulness watches the soccer game and criticizes players for not kicking the ball right. In our churches, a willing heart asks, “What are the needs? How can I help?” A willful heart demands, “What do I get out of the church?” or says, “I want a church with things I like – nice building, fun activities, good music, pastors I can summon anytime.” Usually, the willing ones have a heart larger than their bank account or education. The Lord accepts a willing heart and multiplies its fruit. Are you willing or are you willful? Does your heart want to build up the kingdom of God or elevate yourself?
Gracious God, please give me Your heart. Thank you for accepting and honoring our gifts when we give with willingness.