And on that day they offered great sacrifices, rejoicing because God had given them great joy. The women and children also rejoiced. The sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away. (Nehemiah 12:43)

There are two ways to give, reluctantly or cheerfully. Some people give something grudgingly, as if under compulsion. They will not experience any jou. However, when we sacrifice like the people in Nehemia’s days did, not only will we reap what we sow, we will also reap joy when we sacrifice joyfully!

Note how the people offered great sacrifices. Note also how often the words ‘rejoice’ and ‘joy’ are listed in just this one verse:

“rejoicing because God”;

“had given them great joy”;

“women and children also rejoiced”;

“the sound of rejoicing could be heard far away”.

Joy was multiplied in their lives because they sacrificed joyfully. If you do not experience any joy when you give, don’t do it. Obedience will always lead to more joy!