2 Corinthians 9 - 2.11.26
Scripture
II Corinthians 9:6-8
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
Observation
In yesterday’s reading, Paul speaks about the Macedonian churches’ rich generosity in giving to support the spread of the Gospel in spite of their poverty and trials. Chapter 9 continues that discussion, boasting about their eagerness and pointing out that their enthusiastic giving stirred others into action. Paul is talking about financial giving. We are all called to bring the tithe into the storehouse. But in these chapters, Paul is talking about generosity above and beyond the tithe that God expects of all believers. And he urges us to remember that if we sow generously, we will also reap generously.
Application
I believe that the idea of generosity can be applied to other areas of our lives also: giving of our time, talents, love, support, and service to others. And just like I struggle sometimes with financial generosity, I also struggle with generosity in these other areas. I savor my time and have a hard time giving it away. Sometimes I commit to someone or something, and then struggle with my attitude. I have felt God speaking to me about this lately, and it is reinforced in today’s reading. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. If I feel that God has called me to serve, then I need to serve with a cheerful heart. I need to go into each and every opportunity prayed up and prepared for God to use me.
I will always remember the time I called Brian Moen to ask him to help with a ministry at church and his response was, “It would be my honor.” Brian is a great example of someone who cheerfully gives of his time and talent to serve others. And there are many others in our church family who do the same. Thank you for your eagerness to help and the example you set.
Prayer
God, thank you for reminders, just when we need them. Thank you for working on my heart. Thank you for the many examples of generosity, both financially and in service to others, in our church family. May I serve You enthusiastically in all things knowing that you provide me with all I need.
- Debbie Dunn
