Joy in the Giving

1 Chronicles 29:9 The people rejoiced over the offerings, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the LORD, and King David was filled with joy. Starting with David, the people gave an enormous amount of money to the building of the Temple of God. After giving such a great amount, you would think that they would have went home anxious with regrets. It was quite the opposite, as the people of God rejoiced over the offerings! They rejoiced because they gave freely. It wasn't out of pressure or because of the need to. Instead it was out of a thankful heart that they gave so much that it made them happy! Now there's a concept! It was Jesus Himself that taught that its more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). Receiving does brighten your day, but giving moves something deep down inside of us. I believe that it's because we are more like Him when we give, for He is the Giver. He will not be out done! Joy doesn't come in the getting, joy comes in the giving!