Devotional Three

In 2 Corinthians 9:1-10, the Apostle Paul writes to the Corinthian church about the importance of giving from the heart and how it reflects our love for Jesus Christ. This New Testament passage teaches us the principles of cheerful and grace-driven giving, in contrast to compulsion or religious obligation.

Verse 7 says:

"Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

Reflection

When we give, whether it's our time, talents, or resources, it should come from a place of joy and genuine willingness. Our giving should never be out of obligation or pressure, but rather from a heart that desires to honor God and bless others. God delights in those who give cheerfully, for it reflects a heart transformed by His love.

Verse 10 states:

"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."

God is the owner of all things. He is also the ultimate provider and desires to bless us in our faithfulness and heartfelt giving. When we trust Him with our resources and give with a joyful heart, He multiplies our blessings and expands our capacity for righteousness.

Application

Take time in prayer to consider what you can give from your heart. Seek God's guidance. Encourage your fellow believers to experience the joy and blessings that come from giving with a cheerful and willing spirit.

Welcome to our Bible study on 2 Corinthians 9:1-10.  In this passage, Paul highlights the principles of grace giving (i.e. from the heart) reflecting our love for Jesus Christ.

Heavenly Father, we come before you with grateful hearts for the opportunity to study and learn from your Word. May you open our hearts and minds to your perfect Word.  Teach us how to grow in the grace of giving, just as you have given Jesus to us. In his precious name, we pray. Amen.

2 Corinthians 9:1-10

• What is the context of this passage in 2 Corinthians?

• Explore the background and circumstances that prompted Paul's writing on giving in this letter to the Corinthian church. What does verse 7 emphasize about the attitude of giving?

• Discuss the importance of giving willingly and cheerfully, and how this reflects our heart's posture towards God. Why is it essential to give according to what we have decided in our hearts?

• Reflect on how giving based on personal conviction aligns with our relationship with God and our understanding of His provision. In what ways does verse 10 highlight God's role in our giving?

Reflect on your recent experiences of giving. What are you learning about God’s grace and how it plays out in our giving?

Has your giving been driven by obligation or a genuine desire to bless others and bless His church? How can you cultivate a more cheerful and willing heart in your giving?