Daily Bread

1. I know your eagerness to give (1-2)

The Christians in Corinth were among the first to declare their eagerness to help the suffering believers in Jerusalem. Their enthusiasm had stirred the Macedonian churches to action. Then Paul learned of an ongoing sin problem among the believers, and he had rebuked them severely for their failure to discipline the person involved. Now, they had repented and had been forgiven. Paul wanted to see them completely restored. Their attitude toward giving was the best measure of their spiritual health.

2. A generous gift, not a grudging one (3-5)

They had begun with joy, and had pledged to give a generous gift. Now the time had come for them to make good their promise. Paul was sending Titus and another brother to encourage them so that when he came they would be spiritually prepared to give what they had promised. Paul reminded them of their influence on other churches. He was not above using a little healthy competition to encourage giving.


Prayer: Lord, help me to give sacrificially and joyfully, not grudgingly.

One Word: Be ready to give