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

Monday - Holy Week

There is a verse in the Bible many will recognize and claim: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) This was a favorite with both my husband and me. We had both attended a weekend retreat at our church (at different times) and this was the verse each of our groups adopted.

There is such comfort in these words, especially for a new believer, a fresh follower who has just accepted the challenge to grow a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. At such a vulnerable time as this, to hear the words of Our Lord saying His plans include Hope and Future, will cause many begin a faith journey of a lifetime.

When Jesus was giving instructions to Peter and John regarding preparations for the Passover Meal, it became obvious He had planned this event ahead of time. The scene was set and all the characters, right down to the man carrying water, had an important role to carry out. Jesus commands and the faithful trust and obey.

He replied, “As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, and say to the owner of the house, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’ He will show you a large room upstairs, all furnished. Make preparations there.” (Luke 22:10-12)

The fact that our LORD created a plan for us makes it possible for me to carry on in the face of adversity; it gives me a reason to move forward when things aren't as I think they should be. God has a plan, Jesus has a plan and I know that is all I need today.

Luke 22:7-23