Enriched Through Giving
Today has finally been the day that I have looked forward to! I actually feel some energy and some sense of normalcy. That past two weeks have been challenging and the energy has just not consistently been present to feel like I was moving in the right direction.
I was able to get some computer work done and get out and mow the grass and take the dogs on a walk (with my power wheelchair) Yesterday afternoon ended up rougher than I anticipated. I thought I was feeling better in the evening and then “crashed” somewhat. I headed to bed a 7:30 p.m. with my clothes on thinking I would rest for 30 minutes. At 9:30 I was waken by “little dog” barking (we are dog sitting for Sue and Sam). If it wouldn’t have been for that, Debbie would have had to wake me to give me my night meds and get me out of my regular clothes.
We are looking forward to this weekend and being back in church and assuming our prayer team duties.
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” 2 Corinthians 8:9
Giving is an important aspect of the Christian life. We see it throughout the Bible. In the Old Testament freewill offerings were sacrifices given as an expression of thankfulness to God, it was a recognition that all that we have comes from the Lord. In the New Testament we see 2 Corinthians chapters eight and nine laying out some important principals about our generosity.
In the context it is specifically talking about the Churches of Asia responding to the need of the Church in Jerusalem during a time of famine. The Church has always been at the forefront of “disaster relief.” I a thankful for that. It is an historical fact not a recent response to augment government efforts and programs.
I notice some important truths in these chapters related the practical aspect “giving” and some powerful “spiritual dynamics.” If we miss it, our giving is just an expression of personal philanthropy and can result in pride. Instead it is an obligation on all that has spiritual ramifications.
Giving is an act of grace. Paul said, “But as you excel in everything…see that you excel in this act of grace also.” 2 Corinthians 8:7 It is based on this concept that Paul then shares about the example of Christ. “You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ….” Christ as God owned everything. “Yet He became poor that through His poverty we might become rich.” The favor we have received from the Lord, we are to show in practical ways to others.
Obedient giving results in thanks to God. The proper response is not how great an individual is, but how faithful and wonderful God is! “Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15 “…Such generosity produces thanksgiving to God through us.” 2 Corinthians 9:11
Giving results in spiritual blessing. Paul said, “You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous in every way...” (2 Corinthians 9:11) I’m not sure of the exhaustive list of “made rich in every way” and “generous in every way” but I assume that means more than just money. That means everyone can experience the grace of giving and blessing that results from that expression. This also requires spiritual insight from the Lord. “…having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints…” Ephesians 1:18
This important area of our life requires a Biblical not just a practical humanistic perspective. When we understand that, it frees us and it enables us to bring joy to the Lord who is all about giving, “God loves a cheerful giver.” Whatever you give, whenever you give, give with joy and rest in God’s favor.
As I share this I can’t help but be reminded of those who have given so generously to Debbie and me in our time of need. As my medical issues have become more drawn out than I ever expected the initial response to my illness from so many is what has sustained us during these challenging days and my ongoing recovery. THANK YOU for your grace bestowed upon us, we thank God for you and pray for blessing in return in every way!