2 Corinthians 9:6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly; and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.

This is one of those teachings in Christianity that is so radically different from the world’s standard which teaches that in order to have anything you must hoard, hoard, hoard. I am all for handling one’s earnings prudently because it is fundamental in the economic system in which we live that one should not consume everything one earns.  However in writing to the Christians at Corinth, the Apostle Paul encouraged them to give both willingly and generously and promised that if they did so “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.” (2 Corinthians 9:8).

My mother-in-law, a believer, modeled this principle for me even though she probably had no idea. This woman never knew what a paycheck was because for as long as I knew her she did not work outside of her home. She was active in church and I’m sure she gave there but it was her generosity to the family circle and among acquaintances that was amazing. During a time of scarcity in the country, she became this clearing house for food and domestic supplies. One person would bring one bag of grocery items and leave with another full of different items, and she just kept on sharing. There was never any lack in her house.  To me this was better than any bank account.

Sowing generously, especially in the house of God, allows you to not only have enough but more than you need.  Consider Jesus’ assessment of the widow putting her two pennies in the offering plate: “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” (See Luke 21:1- 4). Do you suppose that from that day forward, the Eternal God would stand by and not provide for the needs of this woman? I don’t think so. Although I am still learning generosity by degrees, I can testify that it has it rewards.