A Cheerful Giver

2 Corinthians 9:1-15

Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. So two good things will result from this ministry of giving -- the needs of the believers in jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God.

Paul reminds us of some important things about giving in this passage today. In verse 10, he tells us that God is the one who provides seed for the farmer to plant and then bread to eat. Although the farmer has responsibility to plant the seed, nurture the plant as it grows, and harvest the wheat, it is actually God who provides the seed, causes the plant to grow as he sees fit, and provides the fruitful wheat for harvest, so that there is bread to be eaten. All we have comes from God. When we recognize that, it is not as difficult to follow His lead and share our gifts, our talents, or our resources with others.

When we give generously, Paul says two great things happen. First, we become instruments of God's provision, so that God provides for people in need through us. That allows us to witness God's act of provision and rejoice in being used by God as a blessing to others. Second, the ones who receive what they need also give thanks to God. As we give generously out of what God provides for us, others are inspired to praise and worship God, offering their gratitude.

What resources has God blessed you and me with? What needs are we aware of in the lives of people around us or in our community? How might we glorify God by generously offering the resources He has given to us?