PURPOSE TO GIVE

The church in Corinth was told to purpose in their hearts to give (2 Cor. 9:7). The word “pur-
pose” means to choose for oneself one thing before another thing. To purpose therefore is to willingly
predetermine what we will give rather than giving in a haphazard manner. Everyone who prospers is to
lay by him in store (1 Cor. 16:1-2). Each Christian is to carry his/her part of the load. Such was the
case in Mark 12:41-44, though the poor widow was proportionately carrying the greater part of the
load. Jesus praised her.
Those who give are not to give “grudgingly, or of necessity, for God loveth a cheerful giver” (2
Cor. 9:7). The word “cheerful” means readiness of mind or joyousness. Christians are glad rather than
sad to give to the Lord and to His cause. Jesus said to whom much is given, much is required (Luke
12:48). Those who sow sparingly will reap sparingly (2 Cor. 9:6). The Macedonians gave beyond their
power (2 Cor. 8:1-4). God gave His only begotten Son (John 3:16), and Jesus gave His life a ransom
for many (Matt. 20:28).
We are taught not to be covetous (Col. 3:5). Neither are we to lay up treasures upon the earth, but
in heaven (Matt. 6:19-20). We are not to give to be seen of men, else we would have no reward (Matt.
6:1-4). We are not to give grudgingly (2 Cor. 9:7). Neither are we to give God the scraps, but the first-
fruits of our labors, even as the Jews were commanded to do (Ex. 23:19). We need to give of our best
to the Master.
Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Giving is a grace which
proves one’s love (or a lack thereof). It is a sin to know to give and not to do so. Let us strive to be
faithful to God to do what He has outlined and be content neither to add to nor subtract from His Word.
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: Some people grow up and spread cheer--others just grow up and
spread!
Have a great week!
Love ya,
Jesse