Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule: Psalm 128-130; 2 Corinthians 9
Devotional Thought:
There are many principles in the word of God for which we use to govern our lives. John 17:17 says, “Sanctify thy word, thy word is truth.” The principles of God’s word are true and therefore help us to live according to truth. Jesus said, “Give and it shall be given unto you.” (Luke 6:38) Jesus does not always give back to us in monetary value, but what He gives is always worth more than we gave. This is the theme of this passage. The first principle is found in verse 6: Our reaping directly relates to our sowing. “But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.” If we invest very little in people or opportunities we reap little of true value from either. The more we invest in the work and program of God, the greater the return on the investment. The second principle teaches that we reap with the same motivations in which we sow. “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” (vs. 7) If everything a person does is done out of duty, demand, or disgust; then they will reap help from people out of the same motivations. God desires that we serve Him and others out of charity, cheerfulness, and contentment. The third principle from this passage is we reap while we are sowing. “Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness.” (vs. 10) It is a gracious promise that God allows us to reap here and now as well as in the future. People are enriched by our service and generosity. Whether we are generous with our time, money, possessions, opportunities, or talents; God uses our generosity to meet needs. Our gratitude to God for these things is demonstrated by our faithfulness to use them generously for His glory. May we be motivated to live by these principles properly and obediently.
Personal Requests:
• Lord, please help me to sow seeds that reflect a gratitude for the grace in which you have given me specific things to use. Help me to rest in the promise and just sow seeds out of a heart of thankfulness.
• Lord, thank you for the many opportunities, possessions, money, talents, and time you have entrusted to me. Please help me to be faithful and obedient.