Giving All
Stop.
Reflect on the last time you shared your money. Why did you give your money away? How did it affirm your beliefs – or not? What message do you want to share when you give money?
Listen.
You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us; for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God. – 2 Corinthians 9:11-12
Reflect.
In this letter to the church in Corinth, Paul tries to accomplish many things. One thing is to make sure that the church in Corinth carries through with their promise to financially support the churches in Jerusalem. The churches of Asia Minor, where Corinth was located, were typically wealthier and more stable than the churches in Jerusalem. Therefore, the church in Corinth had committed itself to support the church in Jerusalem. However, because Paul had lots of crises to attend to in the Corinthian church, he knew he had to assure them of the vitality of this commitment.
As he reminds them of their intended gift, he doesn’t just point to the need it’s meant to address. He doesn’t just remind them of their promises and hold them accountable. He points to the spiritual practice of giving and how it demonstrates an abundant, gracious faith centered in God’s generosity. In giving, the Corinthians not only support others, they challenge and strengthen their own faith.
When we think about the blessings that come to us in our financial giving, we have to be careful about equating financial giving with financial blessings. It’s not a purchase transaction, a tangible reward for giving money away. The blessings we receive are spiritual. We practice gratitude and generosity. We see the beneficial effect of our gifts on the lives of others. We stay connected to the truth of God’s providence. We put material possessions in their rightful place by putting them in service to and praise of the God from whom all good things come.
Pray.
God, as I share what you have given me, keep me connected to the truth of your many blessings. Make me joyfully aware of how my generosity makes abundant life for others. Continue to reveal your power in my faith life. Point me always to where you would have me share and serve in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Carry On.
How would you define the spiritual benefits of financial giving? Have you ever thought of it? Try writing about how giving reflects your faith and connects you to God’s work in your life. How could you share this story with someone else this week?