II CORINTHIANS 8-9
Paul continues his writings to the Corinthian church and is focused on relationships and giving to them out of where we are in life - even poverty. Not just financially, but in relational efforts.
Though Paul was far away from those churches and individuals he kept up with, he made every effort to communicate with them. Handwritten letters that traveled miles and through many means to get to the recipients, people he'd send with specific messages, etc. He had a heart for those people that the Lord had allowed him to come to know. He longed for them to be faithful in their walk and was willing to challenge them long distance and even address sin issues - whatever it took to encourage their walk and however he could get the message to them, he did.
Our technology today allows us to be so impersonal. Take time to reflect on those relationships we each have that due to distance seem hard to keep going.... The Lord wants to use us even in those relationships. Pick up the phone, a kind handwritten note, whatever it takes....
II Cor 8:9 (Amplified)
For you are becoming progressively acquainted with and recognizing more strongly and clearly the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ (His kindness, His gracious generosity, His undeserved favor and spiritual blessing), [in] that though He was [so very] rich, yet for your sakes He became [so very] poor, in order that by His poverty you might become enriched (abundantly supplied)
Paul moves on to not just encouraging, but reminding the church in Macedonia that you've made a commitment, please follow through. Don't disappoint me, he commented. A great reminder to "follow through" - when we make commitments....
II Cor 9 Paul challenging giving in all areas, specifically financially, but out of a cheerful heart. Many times we give out of guilt, out of peer pressure, out of "performance", but our giving needs to be motivated by the Spirit with a heart of joy.
II Cor 9:7 (Amplified)
Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He [a]takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, "prompt to do it") giver [whose heart is in his giving].
Discussion of "giving"....giving isn't just financially related - giving of our time, resources, and talents. Further discussion tied giving of ourselves - required to be involved in relationships - all for the glory of our Lord. We can't have an effectual impact in a relationship if we don't give of ourselves (our time).
Overall emphasis learned from Paul: giving of ourselves in all areas, developing relationships - both close and long distance, with the right heart, brings much joy and freedom in our walk with Christ.
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