”6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”
2 Corinthians 9:6-7
Do you give to beggars?
Giving is a fundamental aspect of our Christian faith. It is not merely an obligation or a duty, but a profound expression of our love for God and others. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, the Apostle Paul reminds us of the importance of giving generously and with a cheerful heart. These verses are not just about the act of giving, but about the attitude behind it. Today, I want us to explore what it means to give with love, and how this kind of giving transforms both the giver and the receiver.
1. The Principle of Sowing and Reaping
Paul begins by using the agricultural metaphor of sowing and reaping. Just as a farmer who sows seeds generously expects a bountiful harvest, so too will those who give generously reap abundant blessings. This is not a prosperity gospel promise that guarantees financial returns for our giving. Rather, it is a spiritual principle that reflects the nature of God’s economy. When we give with love, we are sowing seeds of faith, kindness, and compassion that will bear fruit in our lives and the lives of others.
But notice the contrast Paul draws: those who sow sparingly will reap sparingly. If we give reluctantly or out of a sense of obligation, we are limiting the impact of our generosity. Our giving should not be minimalistic or calculated; it should be an overflow of the love that God has poured into our hearts. When we give freely and with joy, we are participating in the generous nature of God Himself, who “so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son” (John 3:16).
2. Giving from the Heart
Paul continues by emphasizing that our giving should be a personal decision made in our hearts. It should not be done reluctantly or under compulsion. The true value of a gift is not determined by its size or the amount of money involved, but by the heart behind it. God is not interested in the mere outward act of giving; He looks at the motives and intentions of our hearts.
In Mark 12:41-44, Jesus commends the poor widow who gave two small coins, saying that she gave more than all the others who contributed out of their wealth. Why? Because she gave all she had, from a heart of love and trust in God. This shows us that even the smallest gift, when given with love, is precious in God’s sight.
When we give with love, we are expressing our trust in God’s provision. We are acknowledging that everything we have comes from Him, and that He will continue to meet our needs. This kind of giving is not about losing something, but about gaining something far greater—a deeper relationship with God and a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.
3. The Joy of Giving
Finally, Paul tells us that God loves a cheerful giver. There is a deep joy that comes from giving with love. It is the joy of knowing that we are making a difference in the lives of others, that we are being used by God to bring hope, encouragement, and blessings to those in need. It is the joy of participating in the work of God’s kingdom, knowing that our gifts, no matter how small, are contributing to something much bigger than ourselves.
This joy is not dependent on the amount we give, but on the love with which we give it. Whether we are giving our time, talents, or resources, when we do so with a heart full of love, we experience the joy of giving. This joy is a reflection of the very nature of God, who is the ultimate giver. As we give with love, we become more like Him, and our lives are filled with the joy that comes from living out our faith in a tangible way.
As we reflect on 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, let us be reminded that giving is not just about meeting a need or fulfilling an obligation. It is an opportunity to express our love for God and for others. When we give with love, we are sowing seeds that will bear fruit in our lives and in the lives of those around us. Let us give generously, from the heart, and with the joy that comes from knowing we are making a difference in God’s kingdom. And as we do, may we experience the abundant blessings that God has promised to those who give with love.
To God be all the glory, now and forever.
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Father God;
We thank you for your presence in our lives,
We praise you Lord for the wisdom bestowed upon Paul,
And we ask you Lord to help us find joy in your perfect plan.
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through your Word, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by the truth as we spread the good news to one and all,
And lead the lost to You.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us,
To bless our lives and fill us with hope.
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and our place with you in Heaven
According to your ways, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done, here on Earth and through the vast Universe,
May our hearts be filled with your everlasting love and grace.
Praises to You God, Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
