“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 heart how much to give. And don’t reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves a person who gives cheerfully. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
It is amazing that we need to encourage others to give of themselves. Afterall, God has given of Himself-his only son-so that we will not suffer death in a violent, sudden, or untimely way. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” And God, in His infinite wisdom ordained us, MADE US HOLY, gave us a plan for our righteous lives and purpose, even before the foundation of this earth that we live upon (Ephesians 1:4,5).
#1The principle of giving pleases the Lord and will provoke others to give of themselves.
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, was writing a letter to the church at Corinthians. He had first encouraged them to give to a relief fund that would support the church back at the home church in Jerusalem. The Corinthian’s zeal lead Paul to share their love and provoked other churches (e.g. the Macedonians) to emulate the “grace-giving” attitude of the Corinthians to give of themselves. You see, even though the Macedonians were poorer than the Corinthians they gave more heart and money to the effort, now one-year later. The hearts of the Macedonian’s recalled, 2 Cor 9:7, “So let’s give of ourselves not reluctantly or in response to pressure, for God loves persons who give of themselves cheerfully!” When we give and its motivated by knowing that God’s Grace is sufficient, we know that God shall bountifully give back unto us. Remember, His giving back is not necessarily always money. In fact, the whole principle of grace-giving is not totally financial or materialistic, but attitude of the heart.
#2 The principle of increase implies we reap what we sow.
The farmer who sows much seed will have a better chance for a bigger harvest. You see, the more we invest in the good (e.g the work of the Lord, at the job, where ever we go) the more fruit will abound to our account. By improving the health of your Temple, the body is another dividend investment. God is a generous giver; No one can beat His giving to His people whom have good intentions. God Bless! Dr. Dowe “Smile!-God loves a Cheerful Giver”
Comments