2 Corinthians 9:1-15
In order not to feel futile regret at harvest time, let us sow (that means give) abundantly during the sowing season that is now (v. 6; Luke 6:38; Deuteronomy 15:10). What God lays on our hearts, let us do it, and let us do it joyfully. For what we keep for ourselves will not make us rich, and what we give will never make us poor (Proverbs 28:27). The grace of God assures us "always, in all things . . . – not of everything we wish – but of all sufficiency" (v. 8). Vv. 11-14 remind us that unselfish generosity produces in those who are helped thanksgiving to God and prayer for the givers. Beginning with a matter which we could consider secondary concerning giving, the apostle has a way of transferring our thoughts to the most glorious subjects: the Lord’s humiliation (8:9); God’s unspeakable gift (v. 15). Let us endeavour in the same way to progress from the insignificant happenings which form our daily lives to the blessed truths of our faith. An ordinary meal, a family occasion, a present given or received with love, these are occasions to give thanks to God and to think of the supreme Gift: the one which the God of love gave to the world by sending them His Son (v. 15; John 3:16).