“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.”
2 Corinthians 8:9

The apostle Paul writes a lengthy portion of 2 Corinthians encouraging generosity on the part of believers. He talks about the law of sowing and reaping and the fact that God will reward generosity. He speaks of how their gifts will bring needed help to other believers and result in praise and glory to God. He discusses logistics and the example of others. He concludes with the verse we quoted last week –

“Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!”
2 Corinthians 9:15

Ultimately, this is our motivation. If we give as God intends, it will not be in order to receive a reward. Our giving should be the joyful overflow of a grateful heart.

Consider what God has done for you! In Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, he asks a sobering question, “What do you have that you did not receive?” (1 Corinthians 4:7) The hardest working, most successful entrepreneur is a fool if he thinks he is a “self-made man.” The beauty queen, quarterback, corporate giant, and acclaimed chef would be nothing apart from the God who gave them life. Our talents, intelligence, health, and opportunities are all the result of God’s kindness and are for his glory.

This was brought home to me when I was in college. Working as a janitor for the college library, I took pride in scrubbing the white floor in the reception area each evening, making the heel marks disappear and listening to folks remark the next day that the floor looked brand new. That summer I was offered money to sing at a wedding. I had done solos before, but always for free; being paid felt strange. In my immature version of humility, I prayed about it. “My voice is a gift from you. Is it alright for me to accept money for using my gift?” God’s response gave me a taste of genuine humility. He reminded me that apart from him I would be unable to get on my hands and knees to scrub the floor. I would not be able to see the heel marks if he had not given me eyes. The ability to work as a janitor was a gift.

Again, consider what you have been given. When we were rebels, intent on our own way, he sent Jesus to rescue us. He took away the heart of stone and gave us a heart of flesh. He paid our debt; he conquered death. He has gone to prepare a place for us so that we can share his home and inheritance forever. He has sent his Holy Spirit to guide and to sanctify us until we see him face to face.

One cannot fathom the riches he has poured out on us. Even in the darkest times his promises remind us that our troubles are temporary, and that God’s children are headed for eternal glory and perfect joy.

So, in light of what he has done for us, how will we show our gratitude? This is why we give! “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
Matthew 25:40

Merry Christmas!

Written by Jim Wood, Wears Valley Ranch Founder