TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7.
Listen: 2 Corinthians 9
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Becoming a radically generous person never happens by accident. It requires being intentional. And it’s motivated by God’s extreme generosity towards us.
In his second letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul encourages them to simply give what they had decided to give. There can be a massive chasm between deciding to be generous and actually following through. Unfortunately, active generosity can easily die on the pile of good intentions. He doesn’t need our gifts but invites us to participate with him in showering goodness on others. When we’re generous, the blessing is truly ours.
Powerful forces are competing for your heart. This past weekend, Senior Pastor Jeff Manion identified three areas that can become competition for your heart: disorganization, fear and comparison. However, Scripture tells us it is possible to move towards God in each of these areas. By doing so, we close the gap between deciding to be generous and actually becoming generous people.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
As we begin the week together, take a moment to pray a prayer of openness to God. Conversations around finances and generosity can be uncomfortable. Depend on God as you attempt to take a next step in each area. Pray something like this, “Dear God, thank you for your incredible generosity in my life. I believe you want me to experience the blessing of generosity. Give me a soft heart that I might yield to you. Give me strength and courage to follow you, wherever you lead. In Jesus name, Amen.”
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
