Passage
2 Corinthians 9:6-15
6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written: “He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” 10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.11 You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
Commentary & Questions
This passage talks about the incredible importance of giving to others. It speaks of how living generously with what we have been given changes our lives and brings us closer to God. I am drawn to verse 12, as it shows us that giving to others not only provides them with what they are in need of, but also draws us to praise and thank God. We have been blessed with so much in our lives and by having the opportunity to share those things with others, it should cause us to look to God and thank Him. If we are struggling financially, we can give our time, encouragement, prayers, and so many other things that we have been blessed with. I also love verse 13 because it shows us that giving generously to others causes them to turn to God and praise Him. Our acts of generosity reveal Jesus living and shining through us, and that is the ultimate testimony we can give.
This Thanksgiving, remember not only to thank God for all he has blessed you with, but demonstrate your gratitude by paying those blessings forward to others. Pray that God will give you opportunities today to give generously, and ask Him to bring people in your life that need him.
1. List 5 benefits from this passage that are the result of giving generously.
2. Why is it so hard sometimes for us to give generously, and how can these verses remind and encourage us to do so?
3. What should be our intention when giving to those in need? What would please God?
4. What are 5 things you can give or do during this holiday season to thank God and bring him honor?
Devotional Author: Chris Waltner