In The Little Things

Sunday, September 15, 2024

Good morning, Lord

Verse of the Day: 1 John 4:16

16 So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.

Memory verse: Psalm 42:2(New American Bible )

"My soul thirsts for God, the living God. When can I enter and see the face of God?"

Today's reading: Proverbs 25-26 2 Corinthians 9

In The Little Things

(How little things are big)

Paul says, "God loves a cheerful giver" in 2 Corinthians 9:7. Most of us have heard this from folks who are looking to 'raise money' for good causes. But have we read any further than this?

If we read to the end of the chapter we read, "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift".

In verse 8, Paul says that more than that, God has the power to give every 'grace gift' in abundance so we have all we need plus all abundant gifts for every good cause. Then comes a reference to Psalm 112:9:

Psalm 112:9 Complete Jewish Bible

9 "He distributes freely, he gives to the poor;

his righteousness stands forever.

His power will be increased honorably."

He says that we will be enriched in every way-but that is not the point-he goes on to say that all this is so the recipients will thank God.

Our giving is not to satisfy an obligation to God; it is to be the foundation for many people thanking God for God's righteousness in our lives.

In our offerings of service to and sharing with needy folks, Paul says we prove we actually glorify God by being obedient to Christ(verse 13).

A 'mitzvah' in common Jewish use is a gift. In Jewish tradition, a mitzvah creates a bond between the giver and God. (The tradition also says that a woman's gift is greater than a man's gift in that a man can give money, but a woman can give a meal that is ready to eat-a gift readily employed.)

The small things we do in Christ's name shows how very real our connection to God is and brings God praise.

Thanks be to God for His indescibable gift!

...because He loves us...

Father in Heaven,

Thanks to You, oh God, Your name brings us indescribable Gifts! May Your kingdom be known more and more in my heart. Forgive me for being stingy and judgmental. Give me more resolve to generosity and lead me away from greed.

Bountiful Father,

In the name of Christ Jesus,

Amen