2 Corinthians 8:1-24 – Be Generous

Read 2 Corinthians 8:1-24

Chapter 8 is the first of two chapters dealing with the concept of giving. Here Paul gives examples and encourages gracious giving. The Corinthians apparently had shown great generosity in the past. Paul wanted to bring that to mind in case they had forgotten their zeal for giving. They had to complete what they had started.

Paul puts giving into perspective, and verse 9 speaks volumes. “You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich.” Jesus was the most generous giver of all. He gave his very life so that we could be reconciled to himself and the Father. He sacrificed himself for you and me. Take a moment to reflect on what Jesus left behind in his heavenly kingdom to come to earth as a tiny baby. Now let the gratitude of your abundance swell up inside. Continue reading “2 Corinthians 8:1-24 – Be Generous”

Malachi 3:6-15 – Test God

Read Malachi 3:6-15

God welcomes us to test him. He means business in this call to repentance! In this prophecy, God reveals his character as a good father. He says, “I do not change.” Why does that make God good? Because when something doesn’t change, it’s reliable. We can always count on God. He always loves us. That’s very good!

Unfortunately, the people have taken advantage of God and cheated him. They have robbed God of the wholehearted devotion he deserves. Their response to God (in those days it was sacrifices) was less than desirable. Not only did they try and sacrifice damaged goods, but the potential of what they could share with God was reduced because of their greed while seeking the wrong thing.

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James 5:1-6 – Rich People Beware

Read James 5:1-6

What a gloomy picture of rich people James portrays! While admittedly the description fits nicely for some, there are also plenty of “rich” people who have done very good things for the church and for the world with their wealth. James’ idea of rich people is rather tainted, isn’t it?

I found it interesting that while James harshly calls out rich people here, he doesn’t deliver any sort of direct call to change. He is simply telling them to lament their status before God. “Look here, you rich people: Weep and groan with anguish because of all the terrible troubles ahead of you.”

Continue reading “James 5:1-6 – Rich People Beware”
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