Grace at Work
Tuesday, March 10th – 2nd Corinthians 9:6-11 (NIV)
“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. As it is written:
“They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor;
their righteousness endures forever.”
Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”
I wonder why God loves a cheerful giver? I’m thinking about the contrast between doing something cheerfully versus being under compulsion or reluctance. Honestly, this seems difficult at times as we (speaking for myself, of course) seem constantly focused on ourselves, especially when it comes to money. There are so many things that overwhelm our financial budget: debt, taxation, insurance or medical costs, family needs and more. Where is there room for God, and how can I be cheerful about it when it seems at times there aren’t enough dollars to go around? I think the answer, at least for me, is verse eleven. God wants us to be enriched in every way, including financially, so that we can be generous. God’s plan is for us to be a blessing to others, and he provides the seed for us to sow in order to reap a generous harvest that we can use to bless others. And… as a result of this process, God receives thanksgiving from those who have benefited, both on the receiving AND giving end. I believe when we clearly understand this process we would absolutely be cheerful when we give. The Bible goes on to call this a gift from God!
Lord God we thank you for your process of seed time and harvest. Lord give us the revelation in our hearts and minds of Your desire to be a blessing in our lives and one of the ways you use to accomplish that. Ultimately Lord we choose to trust in you, help us God to be consistent, passionate and committed to you. In Jesus name, Amen.