Read 2 Corinthians 9:1–15

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.

2 Corinthians 9:6

 

Farmers reap immediate physical benefits as they work in their fields, but they have to wait for the harvest. Christians who are motivated by grace reap the blessings of personal enrichment in their own lives and characters, and their enrichment benefits others. The final result is glory to God as others give thanks to Him. Paul was careful to point out that grace giving does not bring credit to us; it brings thanksgiving to God. We are but channels through whom God works to meet the needs of others.

God enriches us so that we may give even more bountifully (2 Cor. 9:8– 11). One of the blessings of grace giving is the joy of giving more and more. Everything we have—not just our income—belongs to God, is given to God, and is used by God to accomplish His work. We are enriched in everything with Him and with others.

Grace giving means that we really believe that God is the great Giver, and we use our material and spiritual resources accordingly. We simply cannot outgive God!

Something to Ponder

When you give to the church, to what extent do you want to see definite (and perhaps immediate) results? What does this say about your motivation for giving.