2 Corinthians 9:6-15 NLT – [6] Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. [7] You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." [8] And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. [9] As the Scriptures say, "They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever." [10] For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. [11] Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. [12] So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. [13] As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. [14] And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. [15] Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!
So often, people refer to this message as a prosperity gospel as embraced and yet rejected by many. Obviously, it is taken to the extreme by some with the idea that it is a get rich quick scheme to make sure that you give plenty to God so that you'll get plenty back.
But it is also an easy way for many to reject the whole idea as being just that: A scheme to sell to the masses as a way to be successful. In so doing, those who reject the message of giving to God and others often miss the greatest blessings, consistent with the gospel and message of Christ: To be gracious.
Here, we see the apostle Paul in Jerusalem, speaking to believers about giving to other believers who are in need. He explains how they should measure and determine in their hearts with the assistance of the Holy Spirit about what to give and how to give.
There is no doubt that we are to be generous in the Holy Spirit who will not lead you in any other direction than to be generous to others. But there is also a second part to that message that God will bless you, and He proclaims He will meet your needs in plenty because "you have been obedient" to the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit.
Obedience. Not employing the keys to financial success as the motivation of your obedience to share and give. But rather with a motive to cause others who receive from you to praise and give glory to God. Just as when you see God move in your life that you will praise and glorify God. That is the key to spiritual success for you, even today. That's how to be gracious.
Stay healthy and have a blessed day!
~Dean Burnetti
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