What jumped out at me?
Verse 6-14 – 6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written:
“They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor;
their righteousness endures forever.”[a]
10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
Why It Jumped Out?
I appreciate this pericope as it clearly influences and addresses the matters of the heart as they relate to sowing and its’ purposes. Paul’s encouragement removes the elements of religious, mondain burdensome giving and provide instruction about giving freely, which blesses others and more importantly, pleases God. The benefits of giving persuade believers to intentionally view and give with a heart that pleases God and prompts Him to move on their behalf.
How this changes my life
- It reminds me the importance of scattering gifts to the poor, and that God responds with righteousness. This helps to update my thinking so I am not simply going through motions but that God sees every act and sometimes brings us to those instances. I desire to give by faith, love and hope, that God enriches the life of the recipient of my gift(s) and that He is pleased with my disposition, my heart, my spirit and my posture towards God and fellowman.
Prayer
- God, Thank You for this strong impression that thy Word has made upon my heart today. I am grateful that you are mindful of man. Thank you for being mindful of me. I am grateful for the way you have taken care of us all. Truy, you are a Way-maker. I pray that I am pleasing to you, when I give. Lord, let me not overlook or misjudge scenarios or people but help me to sow according to thy Word. I would like to give more to the poor Lord. Help me. Thank you, God.
In Jesus Name, Amen.