A Well-Timed Gift

Scott Beyer
05/26/23 - Bulletin

“…and arrange beforehand your previously promised bountiful gift, so that the same would be ready as a bountiful gift and not affected by covetousness.” (2 Corinthians 9:5)

            One of the reasons that God asks us to prepare our contribution ahead of time (see 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 for that command) is so our gift isn’t tainted by covetousness.  When we wait until we are assembled to decide how much we are going to give, we might be tempted to give more than we cheerfully wish to because of the pressure of the moment, or we may choose to withhold part of our contribution because we didn’t purpose in our hearts ahead of time to give to God.

            Your contribution should be a sort of “first fruits” of giving.  It should be given from the beginning of the paycheck, not the last of what is jingling in your pocket.  It should also be given with intentionality so that the amount is not an emotional gift swayed by the moment but a determined choice to put God’s work first.  Don’t let covetousness affect your giving.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:1-15

Questions to ask:

1. How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
2. What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
3. How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
4. What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
5. How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul.  If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision

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