2 Corinthians 8 - 6.19.25
2 Corinthians 8:13-15
S – 13 Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. 14 At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality, 15 as it is written: “The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little.”
O - 2 Corinthians was written by Paul and Timothy to the churches in Corinth. They had just shared with them about the generosity and the hearts behind the giving from the churches in Macedonia. The example of the Macedonians is practical proof that true generosity is not the prerogative of those who enjoy an adequacy of means. The most genuine liberality is frequently displayed by those who have least to give. Christian giving is estimated in terms not of quantity but of sacrifice.” (Hughes)
Mark 12: 41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.
43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
These versus discuss the importance of generosity and equality among Christians. It emphasizes that all Christians depend on each other and should work together to provide for each other’s needs.
Corinthian Christians were not giving so that the Jerusalem Christians would get rich and lazy at their expense. Paul was taking the collection so the Jerusalem Christians could merely survive. The goal was not to burden the Corinthian Christians, nor was it to make it easy for the Jerusalem Christians.
Some like to say, “Give till it hurts. Then keep giving until it feels better again.” But God’s goal for us isn’t to “Give till it hurts.” The goal is not to afflict those who give, it is to display the giving heart and love of Jesus Christ. (Blueletterbible.org)
A - The same generosity and care for one another applies still today in our church families. I know firsthand no one is getting rich behind the scenes at Desert Streams Church, but the generous giving (tithes and offerings) ARE what take care of the needs of the church, the members, the community outreaches, the staff, and missions trips.
No one is saying that you have done nothing unless you strip yourself completely and put everything into a common fund. It is okay to have nice things, to have fun, to take vacations, etc. BUT, are you taking care of the things that matter to God as well? The things that He has asked you to take care of within the “church?” The church building isn’t free, the AC/Heating isn’t free, the staff gets a salary, things break down, toilet paper and paper towels are expensive, and ministries need supplies. Tithing isn’t something pastors talk about (or should talk about) for personal gain. The ones I know well actually hate to talk about it. The simple truth is, the running of the church and committing to outreaches and helping the community have monetary value.
I challenge each person to ask God where He wants us to be more generous and listen to what He is speaking to you. It may be as simple as giving up Starbucks twice a week so you can give a little more, or it may be that you have never tithed and He is asking you to trust Him and to be obedient in that area. I promise you will see His blessings come back at you10-fold! That’s not why you should do it, but it’s wonderful how that happens : )
P – Lord Jesus, you are the greatest giver there ever was! You have given us our freedom, bought at the biggest price anyone has ever paid or sacrificed! Help us to become more like you in our generosity and open our hearts to give to the things that stir your heart. I pray against any fear that may hold us back from giving to you what is yours. Whether it’s fear of not having enough, or fear of just trying to survive in a world that keeps taking more and more from us financially. Would you help us to fully trust you in the area of our finances and let you lead the way. And Lord, continue to bless Desert Streams Church in all the areas they need - finances, ministry leaders, staff, and hands to work the fields for harvest! Thank you Lord for your grace and generosity in my own life. I am in awe at the works of Your hands! I love you Lord! Amen
- Crystal Flory
