2 Corinthians 9: 1-9

^{2 Corinthians 9:6-7}  

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 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.

So I guess this means we are not supposed to race around all week, and when we finally slow down and settle into the pew on Sunday, check to see what’s left in our wallet and put that into the collection basket.

Any time activities are well planned and properly orchestrated we are more calm and comfortable. When we are flying by the seat of our pants, we cannot be at peace. It is not wise to take a trip without extensive planning and preparation. It is foolish to simply throw a few things into a suitcase without thinking through what we will truly need for each day of our journey, what it will cost, how we will pay for it, and what our ultimate goal or plan is when we arrive at our destination.

Several years ago my nephew, who was a young Pastor at the time, was traveling with us by car to Ohio. We took turns driving and talking, catching up on each other’s lives and getting to know my nephew again as he had been away for quite some time. I recall some words of wisdom he spoke when reflecting on a mentor of his from seminary; “Ruthlessly eliminate hurry.”

I latched onto that line, and have it posted in various locations at home and work as a constant reminder. This world encourages and supports just the opposite. How are we ever going to Be still and know that He is God, if we are constantly on the go until we plop down on Sunday morning?

Planning and preparation have never been my strength, however as the years race by I am learning the beauty in eliminating hurry, and the time it leaves for planning what I am to do for the Kingdom of God…in my daily life, in my prayer life, and in my giving. I urge you to do the same. 

Read/Listen to 2 Corinthians 9:1-9

Have You Hugged Your Pastor Today? 1 Corinthians 9:1-7

Today’s scripture text is very timely for my family. Paul is talking to the church in Corinth about how pastor’s need to be taken care of for all the work they do. Weather it is through physical payment or by means of church members providing for them, it is the churches duty to make sure they’re able to survive.

Today as you read this, my family is on the road moving from California to Wisconsin where Steve will be ordained as an associate pastor in a church outside of Milwaukee. Being a pastor is going to be hard work, but we are excited about the life God has called us too. We venture to Wisconsin with a peaceful heart because we are going to be at a church that will take care of us.

Have you thought about your pastors and all that they do? Take some time today and thank God for providing people who teach you to follow God deeper, and who will celebrate your joy and cry with you in times of sorrow. Pray for your pastor today. They made have needs that require your intercession. Maybe even drop them a note, letting them know how much you appreciate them.

Ready today's scripture at Biblegateway 1 Corinthians 9:1-7