2 Corinthians 8 & 9

Often within one chapter of scripture Paul will cover a variety of topics, but not in these two chapters. Paul spends the entirety of chapters 8 & 9 talking to the church about giving and financial support of the ministry.

Giving is a discipline, just like any other spiritual disciplines. We don’t automatically become “cheerful givers.” It takes time and practice. By nature we are selfish creatures, but with practice and a change of heart – we can become givers. The Lord doesn’t ask us to give money because He needs it, but because we need to give it. It changes us just as much as the person who receives it. Giving to others and the work of the church is one of the greatest opportunities we have as Christians. I pray we would all be people who GIVE. Let us follow the example of Jesus – who gave it all.

“But just as you excel in everything – in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us – see that you also excel in this grace of giving.” – 2 Corinthians 8:7

“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. – 2 Corinthians 9:6-7