A Cheerful Giver
Design by Joshua Wong
Paul is writing to the Corinthians to remind them about their previous commitment. Earlier in 2 Corinthians 9:3-4, Paul mentions that he has told the Macedonians about a gift to be received.
Paul’s point in verse 6 is this: The one who sows less seed can expect to have less grain. The one who plants more seed will have a more bountiful harvest. It is true both in a physical and spiritual sense, the more we can “plant” or give out of a willing heart of love for our spiritual siblings, the more that love will bear crops.
However, those results may not necessarily be in the physical wealth and prosperity that we expect. It is instead in a much greater form; the spiritual lives of the givers and those who receive their gifts. In that sense, money becomes evidence of love given in the name of Christ.
In essence, money and the giving of money becomes evidence of the love the Church has for one another and a testament of Christ’s love on Earth. In this season, do consider giving cheerfully to EAST.
Christian Freedom
After Jesus’ death on the cross and subsequent resurrection, many still held fast to the Old Testament laws. In Galatians chapter 5, Paul is telling his listeners that there is no longer a need to be justified by the law since Jesus’ death is sufficient for our salvation.
This great news, however, does come with new instructions.
Am I Willing To Be a Servant?
Philippians 2:14-15 (ESV) “Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world”
Be it chores, homework, or other responsibilities, it can be incredibly difficult to do the things we are told to do. Yet here, Paul says to not just do these things, but to also do so without complaining or arguing.
Rejoicing Amidst Challenges
Romans 12:12 “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” (ESV)
In a mere 11 words, Paul gives three instructions to the Romans in the midst of challenges that they face in their walk with Christ. Romans 12 marks a shift for Paul as he moves from the doctrines he espouses in the first eleven chapters to practical outcomes of those principles.
Given All to be All Generous
“11 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.” ~ 2 Corinthians 9:11 (NIV)
God has given us all things to enjoy and in turn we are to bless others beyond measure through our generous giving of ourselves and all things. This results in a mutuality of joy by blessing others and by graciously accepting help from others. Proverbs 11:25 says, “Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”
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