The will of God will not take us where the grace of God cannot sustain us.
– Billy Graham.
When I was a kid, I always want to be the one who will place our offering in the offertory basket. Moreover, when I do so, I would sometimes wish for what I want in return. Other times, I feel proud that our family is giving some contribution to the church. Looking back it made me realize how sinful I was even at an early age. And sad to say that at that time I did not recognize that I have sinned. Let us reflect on what Paul wrote about the source of all that we have.
Bible Reading
Today’s devotional reading is from the 2nd Letter of Paul to the Corinthians 9:8. Please, read our recent devotional from the Book of Numbers 23:19: God Is Perfect In His Three Divine Persons
God is the source of all grace
Verse 8 is one part of the verses in 2nd Corinthians 9 that talks about the cheerful giver. In this verse, Paul describes God as the source of all abounding grace. Moreover, he emphasizes that God and not man provides sufficiently to all. Further verses support this fact. It is written, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
King Solomon, one of the richest kings in his time, turned to God for His provision. This fact is evident when he wrote, honour the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; 10then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine (Proverbs 3:9-10). Indeed, God is the source of all grace. And He is the unselfish God who provides for all His children. No one else is like Him (Jeremiah 10:6).
Entitlement does not relate to grace
The late C.S. Lewis said, Life with God is not immunity from difficulties, but peace within difficulties. This quote is a good reminder for us. People nowadays have that sense of entitlement. We think that everything we have is because of our works. Or that we have everything we have because we deserve it.
This attitude is a form of pride. And when we have this characteristic, it is difficult to see who is The True Source of all the graces we receive. In addition, the blessings we receive are not only for our benefits but also for others. Therefore, let us unselfishly share with others what we have for the Lord our God loves a cheerful giver. So that others may see the provisions of God through His followers.
Reflection
This is the time for your journaling. Reflect on these questions. Ask the Holy Spirit to test your faith and your walk with Christ.
Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? — 2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV.
- How do you feel when you give to others?
- What are your thoughts when you give?
- Where do you think the blessings come from?
- Did you accept the greatest grace God has given you? Accept Jesus Now.
- Why do we have to share with others?
Related Posts
- The Saving Grace Of God Wiped Out Our Transgressions
- The Light Of The Lord God Will Reign Forever
- The Throne of Grace
- Feeling Empty?
- The Proud will not seek God
Prayer
Help me O God, because, like all the children of men, I need your daily grace. Yesterday’s blessings can encourage but will not take care of the burdens of today. May I know Thee as the Shepherd of my life and eternal soul. May my fears be dissolved by faith in Thee and through the power of Thy love. Help me to love and manifest the spirit of love under all circumstances to all people. May my life be glory to Thyself, help to my fellow-man and rewarding to me.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(from Knowing-Jesus.com)
