Exempt from Obligation

I have never joyfully written a check for taxes. However, this is not a new phenomenon. I doubt the Egyptians enjoyed paying taxes on their cooking oil. The Greeks surely did not enjoy paying taxes to wage wars but amazingly received refunds when excess was raised. And the colonists in the United States did not appreciate paying taxes on British tea. Oh, the obligation of taxes.

When I write a check for taxes, I feel that obligation — as if someone is taking my money. When I give money to God’s work do I feel this same sense of obligation? At times, my answer is yes and that is not good. At issue is the difference between taxation and stewardship.

Taxation is a legal requirement that takes MY money from MY bank account. 
Good stewardship is using the money, God has entrusted to me, wisely with great gratitude and generosity. He provides all that I need and I give back to God in response to His provision. 

Join with me in joyfully returning to God what has always been His.

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
(2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV) 

Sharing the journey with you,