April 8, 2012 (1 Samuel 3-5; Psalm 77; 2 Corinthians 8 )
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Whatever you give is acceptable if your give it eagerly. And give according to what you have, not what you don’t have. Of course, I don’t mean your giving should make life easy for others and hard for yourselves. I only mean that there should be some equality.” 2 Corinthians 8:12-13 NLT
Observation: The Macedonia church was very generous. They gave financial support to help churches/ministries in other towns. They gave willfully and eagerly. Paul is commending the Macedonia church and using their faithfulness to encourage the Corinthian church to follow the same example. He did not ask them to “give until it hurts”; he was very clear in his expectation. Paul encouraged the Corinthians to give eagerly and according to what they had. It was not a competition to see who could give the most; it was an encouragement to be faithful over what they each had. He encouraged those that had plenty now to give to help those that were in need. Why? Because one day the tables would turn. The one that receives today will be blessed with the opportunity to give later.
Application: Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” He really knew what He was talking about! I have received many blessings and gifts throughout my lifetime, but few of the gifts I’ve received have ever made me feel as good as the opportunity to give to others does. Giving is a privilege and honor given to us by God Himself. Yes! The opportunity to give is a gift! Give according to what you have, and give it eagerly. Not so others can live high on the hog, but so that all will have what they really need. If the modern church could ever learn this lesson, what a difference the church could make in this present world.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for all the blessings You have given me! Thank You, and I praise You, for all the opportunities You have given me to give to others. Help me ever be faithful in giving from what I have. Help me be a good steward over all that is Yours. Give me wisdom to know what’s right and the courage to do what’s right at all times. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day! In Jesus name, Amen!