2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all you need, you will abound in every good work.

Paul in writing to the church at Achaia (in Western Greece) told them that he had been boasting to the church in Macedonia about their enthusiasm and generosity. They had promised to give a generous offering. Paul sent some of his partners ahead of him back to Achaia to make sure the offering was collected and ready when he and any Macedonians should arrive so there would be no embarrassment.

He wrote to remind them that “whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” (2 Corinthians 9:6). It is interesting that this is not just a spiritual law but a natural law as well. You know people who are giving and kind and, if you think about it, you will realize that you don’t hear them complaining about what they do not have. They are not the ones who are barely making ends meet. It does not mean that they never experience hardship, but they eventually land on their feet.

If the average person can grasp this principle, why is it such an obstacle for children of God? There is often a grudging spirit in some who claim to serve a generous God.  He gives life, health, sunshine, rain, food, jobs, spouses, children, clothing, shelter, the moon and stars and this big beautiful earth for us to inhabit. Then he gave his Son who said that he came so we might have abundant life. Paul provided this guidance on how to give: “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).

If you do not give or give sparingly, only you will know. If you do not give in the house of God because no one is being saved, the full gospel is not being preached and you feel your gift is not being used properly, then it is time to move on. Find a place of worship that is honoring God. Just do not deprive yourself of the blessing that will result from your generosity because God is able to bless you in everything you do so you can experience an overflow with which to bless others. Wow!