Excel in the Grace of Giving (Part 2)

Paul uses the church of Macedonia as an example of giving, to inspire the church of Corinth.  While Macedonians gave much in their state of poverty, Corinthians had much more to give but needed more of inspiration to do so.

“God wants us to be generous givers.” – Pastor Billy R. Johnson.

Giving can be a step of grace. Although God wants us to be generous givers, why be givers and why be generous?

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God Wants Us to Be Delivered From Selfishness.

We were born with the innate ability to be selfish. The practice of giving moves us away from remaining in the state of selfishness.

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To Remove a Scarcity Mindset.

Many of us, depending on our experiences, may have grown up with lack and possibly developed the mindset that there is never enough.  Even when there is enough, some may still hold the notion that giving will lead to there never being enough.

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To Teach Us Dependence on God.

When the people were gleaning the fields, God reminded them not to take all there is, but to leave some for those who might have a need. God sustains us and we must be dependent on His source.

 

 

LESSONS WE CAN LEARN FROM GIVING

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Give Generously (II Corinthians 9:6)

The scripture states he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly.  Sparingly meaning a limited quantity. In turn, it also states he who sows bountifully, will reap bountifully. Bountifully meaning a large amount with blessing.

We are also reminded of Luke 6:38 – Give and it shall be given to you…

“It’d be foolish for you to seek harvest and you haven’t planted a seed.” – Pastor Billy R. Johnson.

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Give Purposefully (II Corinthians 9:7)

You cannot wait on your life to dictate how and when you give. Purpose in your heart before life tells you what to do.  We should not be living life where we use 100% of our means.  Luke 7:36 gives an example of heart purpose giving, as the woman gives of the fragrant oil which costs her a year’s wages.  It was already purposed in her heart the desire and determination to give.

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 Give Cheerfully

Let each one give what is purposed in our heart. When one is so thrilled about giving, they are already graced to give.

“Don’t let the world’s view rob you of the joy of giving.” – Pastor Billy R. Johnson.

God loves a cheerful giver.

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Give Expectantly (II Corinthians 9:8)

Some people may believe there shouldn’t be any expectation of giving.  However, the scripture says God is able (having special competence in performing a function), and therefore the expectation leans into the faith we have in God’s ability.

“God is able to make every manner of grace – to cause something to exist in abundance.” – Pastor Billy R. Johnson.

In closing, giving is the step to grace, and grace is the favor that is extended toward you.