Read: II Corinthians 9:1-15
Think: II Corinthians 9:-6-7 says, “Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your own heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.’” We learned in church this past Sunday, that God wants us to give cheerfully and generously give so that we will (1) experience more of God’s generosity toward us, (2) bring more glory to God because of our generosity, and (3) have plenty left over to share with others! What great reasons to give! But, we also learned that there are barriers to giving such as worry and fear. If you want (or need) a new perspective on the benefits of becoming more generous with the gifts God has given to you, please click here listen to this week’s message from II Corinthians 9 (as well as from Matt. 6:21-33 and Malachi 3:8-11).
Act: Over the past 97 days of the “100 Days of Faith in Action” Series, we have discovered that faith is actually quite counter-cultural! For example, through I and II Corinthians, Paul has consistently challenged the church to live differently than the world—to love with patience, to sacrifice for the weaker, and in today’s reading, to give back to God in proportion to what He has given to you! None of it makes worldly sense, but that is Paul’s point! Planet earth is not the home of a Christian. Eternity is our home and we have an opportunity to store up rewards in heaven! Today, evaluate your generosity in light of II Corinthians 9. Are you a joyful or reluctant giver? Do you “plant only a few seeds” or do you “plant generously?” This week in church, we were challenged to… “Take an inventory and re-sync your thinking to consider how blessed you are…then freely give! Prayerfully consider becoming a more generous giver today. Make a commitment to give and live up to it!”
Pray: Dear Jesus, I want to become more generous by giving my time and money back to You. I know that my giving will cause me to mature in my faith. It will cause others to be reached for you (locally and globally) and it will reflect my obedience to You and Your Word. Show me specifically how and what I can give to Your church on earth. Help me not to worry, but to trust that You will take care of my needs. I love You, Lord. Amen.
Be full of faith today!
