Abundantly

Paul stresses the lavish nature of God's giving towards us so that we may give bountifully in response: God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. The Old Testament commanded a tithe (10% of income) to support the ministry in the temple. The New Testament is far more radical: we are to be generous givers of all we have. Some will give far more than 10% of their income, others far less.

Thoughtfully

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give. We need to think carefully about what resources we have been given, what our responsibilities are and how we can give money in the most regular and tax efficient way. There are more details on how to do this below.

Joyfully

God loves a cheerful giver. It's easy to give for wrong reasons - to relieve our guilt, to avoid other avenues of Christian service, to be seen to be generous by others. Paul tells us that God loves a joyful and big hearted response to ali that he has lavished on us.

Sacrificially

King David on one occasion said he would not offer God a sacrifice that cost him nothing. Jesus commends the woman who gave generously out of the little she had. Sacrificial giving on our part pleases God who has richly provided for us.