PODCAST
Giving Cheerfully of Ourselves
February 14th, 2013
2 Corinthians 9:1-7
You know what these terms mean: “He is so tight, he squeaks,” or “I think she still has the first dollar she ever made.” In 2 Corinthians, chapter 9, Paul certainly would not describe the Corinthians in these terms. Paul’s hope for the Corinthians would be better described as, “They would give you the shirt off their back.”
But does cheerful giving refer only to the giving of money? Could this refer to the giving of time, expertise, service, and skills?
- A very busy couple for many years has transported three persons who would never be able to come to church if someone did not pick them up. This means the couple has to leave home early and drive across town to get them.
- Another family comes to the early service and forfeits attending Sunday school, so they can relieve a mother of a severely handicapped child so she can attend church. Think what that means to that mother.
- A talented businesswoman spends one evening a week teaching budgeting skills through a local social service agency.
- A friend makes sure there is fresh ice available twice a day following her neighbor’s knee replacement.
By the way, how is your cheerful giving?
Author: Patricia Kissell
Tags: Generosity
February 14th, 2013 at 8:24 am
That is cheerful giving. When we set ourselves aside, our wants, our desires, and give our time, our talents, our energy, service and skills to push God’s plan forward.
“Give generously to him and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.”
Deuteronomy 15:10