SCRIPTURE - 2 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
Paul encourages generosity in the Corinthian church with a simple idea: give little, get little. Give a lot, get a lot! He also says that those who give should gladly, without having their arm twisted. God will take care of all of our needs! (That's a relief to hear, right?)
But check out the why behind it: "so you will abound in every good work". God gives us what we need, not just so our rent or mortgage gets paid, but to continue living the life He's called us to live. We see that it's about more than just us - it's about God caring for us so we can care for others.
APPLICATION
Now, this isn't as simple as giving $50 to the church and then getting a random $100 check in the mail the next week. While we do believe God honors our giving, we might not always reap our blessings in dollars.
That doesn't mean God doesn't give us the money we need, though! There are countless stories of God providing financial miracles. But remember, the reason God gives them is not only to care for us. When we feel God's love expressed through His miraculous provision, we are driven and encouraged to celebrate what God has done and lead others to know Him too! God’s provision reminds us of His love, which encourages us to share the Good News.
PRAYER
Two questions to ask yourself when it comes to provision: Are you trusting God for it? Are you entrusting God with it? Challenge yourself to believe that God will provide for your needs, and as an act of faith, give back to God some of what He's already given to you.
"God, I know that everything I have is yours. Help me to know that you have the power and desire to give me everything I need so that I can do all that you're calling me to do. Help me be confidently generous and to believe that you will provide. In Jesus' name, amen."
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