When we give, we are thanking God

ApriL   6

Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-12 and reflect on the passage.

My seminary professor spoke at UALC in the early 1970's. He said, “Grace begets (gives birth to) gratitude; gratitude begets graciousness; and graciousness…gives.” I have never forgotten both those words and the truth they bring.

When Jesus’ work in my life is real and true, I have no choice, as it were. I am so grateful—and that thanks needs a place to go, and a way to act. Giving is one of the very real and tangible ways my thanks goes and acts.

As I give—time, money, love, and more—my thanks “gets legs.” It lives, and I see even more clearly the reality that Jesus really has acted and is living in my life. It shows up now in my giving. Giving is not something I avoid or neglect. It is, rather, something I seek. It is the way that I can thank God for His gifts to me in Jesus.

I am grateful for the opportunity to give, and for the proof and demonstration of Jesus’ mercy in my life, that this giving becomes every day. How about you?

Questions

1. Ask Jesus “what else, what more can I give and do as a result and proof of Your mercy in my life?”

2. Who might you ask for help/counsel about giving, because of Jesus’ mercy to you? Connect with them, and see what thanksgiving might come from this.

Prayer

Thank You, Jesus, for Your mercy and grace in my life, and for the testimony and proof of Your work that my giving becomes to me every day. Amen.

—Paul ulring