Tag Archives: charity

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”  (2 Corinthians 9:7, NIV)

Each day, we have numerous opportunities to give.

In the context of today’s scripture, Paul is both commending and encouraging the disciples in Corinth (who were a pretty cosmopolitan lot in their day) to not only give of their treasure, but to give it liberally — and with a smile!

As you have opportunity to give today, remember that “God loves a cheerful giver.”  – Luther

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“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9, NIV)

A few verses earlier in today’s scripture citation, we are reminded that we “reap what we sow.”

It is worth remembering that even while we are engaged in sowing “good seed” by doing good deeds, it takes a while before the planted seed sprouts; and longer still before the sprout matures and is ready for harvesting.

Particularly when we are doing the right thing, we want to see results.  Paul reminds us that the desired results will come but, in the meantime, we must not tire of doing good; and we must not grow weary in the wait for harvest.

Sow.  Water.  Weed.  Fertilize (encourage).  Wait.  “At the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”  – Luther

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“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come back, and tomorrow I will give it,’ when you have it with you.” (Proverbs 3:27-28, NASB)

As disciples of Jesus, we should aspire to maintain “short accounts” with everyone.  We should not put-off for tomorrow the things that can be done today: The praise that will encourage; the return of a kindness; the helping hand.

Each day, God gives us numerous opportunities to bless the lives of those around us.  Seize as many of these opportunities as strength will allow.  – Luther

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