Now God who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your supply of seed and will cause the harvest of your righteousness to grow. You will be enriched in every way so that you may be generous on every occasion, which is producing through us thanksgiving to God, because the service of this ministry is not only providing for the needs of the saints but is also overflowing with many thanks to God. Through the evidence of this service they will glorify God because of your obedience to your confession in the gospel of Christ and the generosity of your sharing with them and with everyone. And in their prayers on your behalf they long for you because of the extraordinary grace God has shown to you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! (Second Corinthians 9:10-15)
Continuing our thoughts on giving, it is God “who provides seed for the sower.” (Second Corinthians 9:10) God gives graciously to us, and in return we give joyfully to Him. Paul says, “the service of this ministry is not only providing for the needs of the saints but is also overflowing with many thanks to God.” (Second Corinthians 9:12)
In verses 13 and 14 of this passage, Paul states a fascinating sequence:
*Giving serves as a proof of the authenticity of one’s ministry.
*God is glorified by our confession of Him, in conjunction with our demonstration of generosity.
*People who receive what we give are moved to intercession: they pray to God on our behalf.
Interestingly, and Pastor Sam reinforced this in his sermon, our act of giving is really intended to reflect God, Who is the ultimate Giver. If we submit ourselves to Him, then tithing and giving are not a problem. These acts, when rooted in His grace, are a reflection of God’s characteristics. As our pastor said, “We become partakers of the Divine nature.”
God’s grace is demonstrated in the congregant who joyfully gives one dollar. What a contrast from those who grudgingly toss one dollar into the offering plate.
Some may ask, Does attitude really matter? After all, the church still got a dollar from the happy giver and the giver with an attitude. God netted the same amount.
Psalm 50, a psalm that discusses the proper attitude toward giving, makes it clear that God promised destruction to those who, as reluctant givers, misrepresent His nature and character. “Carefully consider this, you who reject God! Otherwise I will rip you to shreds and no one will be able to rescue you.” (Psalm 50:22)
Our pastor shared with us that “it is a privilege to be in charge of resources that are given for God’s purpose.” Let us take joy in our privileged status! Let us give as God gives, extravagantly, for the fulfilling of His purpose in the earth.
Give, joyful giver! Overflow with thanks! Receive God's commendation and the saints' intercession.
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