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| REST STOP #2: Giving in God’s Ki II Corinthians 8-9 give us a picture of a real pastor with a real congregation struggling with issues of generosity. Paul walks a tightrope with the Corinthian church, tiptoeing between gentle encouragement and soft-pedaled prodding. Ideally this congregation was to give freely, following the pattern of Jesus’ generosity. But they (and sometimes we) didn’t feel the desire to give, even though they knew the story of Jesus. How much do we push ourselves to give even when we don’t feel it? Do we stop giving if we can’t be cheerful givers? Or does the giving itself help foster the “cheerfulness?” Interact with these scriptures and the questions. Pray that you can hear and receive what God is saying to you. II Cor. 9:6 The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Do I believe that? Is Paul talking about money here or something else? In what areas of my life do I sow sparingly? Where do I take risks? Where do I really invest my time, talents and money? 9:7 Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. What does it mean to make up your mind about giving? Do you sometimes feel compelled to give? What would help you become a more cheerful giver? Continued... |
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