Day 157, 2 Corinthians 9
Paul continues his theme of giving, underscoring how it reveals the heart.
In this chapter you can almost hear the hyperbole he uses to make his point. It verges on the sarcastic as Paul highlights the gap between the Corinthians’ professed beliefs and their actions. He almost accuses them of being an embarrassment to him!
Yet Paul also seeks to commend rather than merely criticize. You can also discern his love for the nascent seeds of generosity they embody. His writing is seeking to water those seeds and nurture them to full fruit.
God deals with us in similar ways: whenever we fall short, He will highlight the shortfall while affirming the godly potential in us. This is how a loving father parents his children: You didn’t achieve that yet, but I know you can!
It is tempting to focus on externals: did I give enough, have I performed to God’s standards? But the truth Paul wants them to embrace (and us too) is that all our obedience is fueled by God’s lavish love.
If I notice I am lacking, the answer is not in more effort, but in receiving more fully.
Have a great day!
Mark.