Generosity produces joy!
Scripture reading for September 1st: 2nd Corinthians 8, Psalm 25, Proverbs 20
2nd Corinthians 8:1-5 “We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints–and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.”
Paul encouraged the believers with a testimony about the churches of Macedonia. They were in a severe test of affliction and persecution but begged Paul for the opportunity to give. This was because they had given themselves to the Lord as His children and servants when they believed. God’s grace, working in them, caused them to freely give of themselves and of their finances. Many were in extreme poverty because of the persecution, but they gave beyond their means. This giving for the relief of the saints cause an abundance of joy and rejoicing. Not only among those giving, but also among the saints receiving the needed help! God’s ways and paths are beyond the world’s understanding! The faithful and generous are blessed!
Psalm 25:4-5 “Make me to know Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for Your are the God of my salvation; for You I wait all the day long.”
Prayer: Father God, thank You for demonstrating joyful giving through the giving or Your Son, Jesus Christ for us who were sinners. Thank you for the joy that this free gift of salvation has brought to believers throughout the world and for all time. Use me to overflow with generosity to help refresh the saints and experience the abundant joy of cheerful giving.
Proverbs 20:6 “Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?”
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