2 Corinthians 9:6–15 (Listen)
6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 9 As it is written,
“He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever.”
10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. 12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. 13 By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, 14 while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. 15 Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!
Devotional:
Willing Gift
In today’s economy, it is often difficult to joyfully give gifts because there always seems to be financial hardships to overcome. Worry seems to be a barrier to giving towards God’s Church. Here, Paul assures the Corinthians that God has the ability to meet all of our needs (including finances). God owns it all and is in control of all things. It’s the act of faithfulness and trust that God desires from us. Those who give generously will be cared for by God; He will not leave you hanging high and dry. Worrying can dry up a lot of things, but focus on pouring into others and putting your faith and trust in God to provide for your every need.