The Coins in the Jam Jar
Written for Bible Journey Plan. Our editorial standards.
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
2 Corinthians 9:7 KJV
This is an original fictional illustration, not a historical report or an added Bible event.
Ella saved coins in a clean jam jar. When her class collected money for books at the children's hospital, she decided to give part of what she had saved. Her brother suggested giving the whole jar so people would clap.
Ella talked with Mom and chose an amount she could give gladly. She put it in an envelope without writing a speech about it. There were still coins in the jar for the purchase she had planned.
Paul teaches that giving should be willing and cheerful. It is not a contest to make other people admire us. Ella's gift could help buy a book, and she could be glad about that. The joy came from sharing something useful, not from hearing her name announced in front of the class.
A small step for today
Giving should be thoughtful and willing. Decide what you can share, with a grown-up's help when needed. Do not give just to make someone clap for you. Paul was teaching believers about a real gift for people in need. Kindness can include money, useful things, and time spent helping, offered with a glad heart.
For the grown-up reading along
Paul is arranging a willing gift for believers in need. Giving is to be purposeful and cheerful, not coerced, and the passage does not promise personal wealth in exchange for money.
Read the KJV passage aloud. Explain unfamiliar words in ordinary language without changing the quotation.
Read further: 2 Corinthians 9 in the King James Bible.