Some people have incorrectly jumped to the conclusion that tithes are mandatory but freewill offerings are strictly voluntary. Offerings are commanded just as much as tithes (Malachi 3:8-10, Numbers 29:39), but God gives us the choice to determine just how valuable the physical and spiritual blessings are for us. Deuteronomy 16:16 commands God's people to bring free-will offerings three times a year. God repeatedly offers us the choice between the give way leading to life and the get way leading to death (Deuteronomy 30:19). If we choose to sow sparingly, we will also reap sparingly (II Corinthians 9:6-7). God loves a cheerful giver because in doing so, we express His character. Jesus gave His physical life, giving up the glory and power of being God, becoming a servant (Philippians 2:6-7). As we give selflessly and cheerfully, we grow spiritually, emulating the benevolent nature of God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ.