STOP AND THINK – The heart of the giver makes the gift dear and precious. (Martin Luther, German monk and early leader in the Protestant Reformation)
Have you ever given to someone for the wrong reason? Perhaps a bridal shower or wedding or graduation gift because you felt like you had to? A gift is more meaningful and valued when it is given out of a heart of appreciation and friendship. Perhaps more precious are the gifts of time, conversation, and warm fellowship from a heart of love and caring.
But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving (2 Corinthians 8:7)