September 7

Song of Solomon 5:1-8:14, 2 Corinthians 9:1-15, Psalm 51:1-1, Proverbs 22:24-25

Pray: Father, today I ask for forgiveness of all the negative and harmful words I have spoken about myself. I do not want to abuse myself in such a way again. Transform my thoughts and let me understand how marvelously you made me. Change my habits so I use my tongue to speak hope and favor upon my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Read: In Paul’s second letter to the church at Corinth, he reminds the people to fulfill their commitment that they had made to send money to the church in Jerusalem. Paul uses some powerful imagery to help the worshipers realize the importance of their gift and how God will provide for their needs. Have you ever been reluctant to give generously to the church for fear of not having enough to meet your own needs? Sure, we all have! Paul reminds us that if we plant only a few seeds then there will be only a small crop but if we plant generously then there will be a generous crop with a much greater return than our initial investment. Paul also reminds us that our heart toward our giving is just as important as the giving itself. We are to give with a grateful heart and with great cheer and not out of pressure to do so. 

Edify: It’s easy to look at a church and see them as doing nothing more than beggin' for money. However, the reality is that if it weren’t for the generous support of givers in the church, the mission and ministry of the church could not and would not happen. Scripture tells us that our giving to the mission of the church is yet another demonstration of our trust and faith in God. Paul reminds us today that it is not out of obligation or duty that we should give but out of a love and devotion to God and the mission of the church. There is a double edged sword that comes with giving… one is that it is absolutely necessary so that the Kingdom efforts can continue here on earth and the other is that we need to give to demonstrate our trust and faith in God.

Practice: As we continue to pray for our Mission 20:21 campaign, will you pray for life change to occur during this campaign? Also, we ask that you will pray for how you can be a part of the campaign if you have not already been a part? What will your sacrificial gift be to the kingdom of God and to the future of God’s church through Christ Church? There are some of you who are giving with extravagant generosity, while others are giving faithfully and others who are doing both. No matter where you find yourself financially, there is a place for you at the table of God and in Mission 20:21. We have said it often, and will continue to say, “It’s not about equal gifts, but equal sacrifice.”