20060103
        These verses continue Paul’s discussion with the Corinthians on the matter of giving. Of particular interest in this passage is vv 9:1-15, where Paul describes the nature of the us of the gifts we have been given by God, summarized well by verses 9:6-7
“6Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.â€
         To me, these verses show that, just as in Jesus’ Parable of the Talents, God expects us to put the blessings He has given us to work, and to the greatest work they can accomplish, whatever that might be. We should constantly be seeking out opportunities to sow specifically because we expect to find a rich harvest from that work. In this way, we show our love to our God and act as a light toward men.
         Another aspect of chapters 6-9 that struck me is the fact that the gift Paul was traveling across Asia minor to collect was a gift for the church, specifically the church in Jerusalem that was suffering greatly at the time. We often forget the need and the usefulness of such gifts when we do give.
         I am not just talking about missions. There are many churches that are a part of our respective denominations that would benefit greatly from our gifts so that they can continue the work of the Gospel wherever they might be. This is not to suggest that we should take gifts from our own churches or from missions. Instead, we should look to ourselves and see how we can help our fellow Christians in need and by that helping be strengthened in our faith as well.
DLH
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