Devotion:
Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-8.
Paul is “taking up an offering.” He is collecting offerings from the churches of his missionary journeys which will go to the Christians in need in Jerusalem. He has been bragging on the churches of Macedonia for the extremely generous gift they gave, emphasizing that they gave it of their own free will and not under any hint of compulsion. He is now encouraging the Christians of Corinth to do the same, again emphasizing that they should give “not reluctantly or under compulsion…” Then comes the phrase I have heard quoted for many years: “...for God loves a cheerful giver.” In other words, it is just as important to God “in what spirit” we give as is what we give.
Over the years of being in worship services, I have often seen a parent hand their small child a few coins or a dollar bill to put in the offering plate. Most of the time, the child has had a cheerful expression on their face as they gave the money that had been given to them. But every once in awhile, I could tell that it was a reluctant, if not painful, gesture! Each time, it causes me to reflect on my own attitude with which I give, whether I am giving money, time or service of some kind.
The core of this lesson goes back to how we view what we have. Do we see it (our life, health, money, “stuff”) as our own or do we see it as belonging to God, who gave it to us to oversee and distribute some to others? If we see it only as our own, we will usually be reluctant to give much away. But if we see it as belonging to God, we become thankful for the opportunity to use all we have to bless others.
Personal Worship Option:
Give some thought and prayer to why you give what you give.
No comments:
Post a Comment