Faithfully Yours Forever

For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 2 Corinthians 10:3 (NIV)

Passage: 2 Corinthians 10:1-11

As believers, what is it that we hope others will see in us as a result of our relationship to Jesus?  These things, that we hope others will see, are the weapons we are given to fight the spiritual battles of this world.  They are the fruit of the Spirit.  Galatians 5:22-23 tells us that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.  Against such things there is no law.  It certainly is a much different kind of a battle that will be waged with these weapons in hand.  Armored with truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the word of God, how can we lose?  May we therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, [we] may be able to stand [our] ground, and after [we] have done everything, to stand [Ephesians 6:13].  (inspired by Reflecting God – Devotions for Holy Living, WordAction Publishing Company)

They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor,
their righteousness endures forever;
their horn will be lifted high in honor. Psalm 112:9 (NIV)

Passage: Psalm 112:1-10

While we are not often told to do things that the Lord would have us do for the reward that we would receive for doing them, Scripture often reminds us of the gifts and blessings that we will indeed receive.  Psalm 112 is only ten verses in length, but it is packed with words of encouragement.  The Lord commands us to give to those in need, but promises to bless the one “who finds great delight in His commands” (v 1).  We can read words of encouragement about our children, our finances, and our character in this psalm.  May we stand firm against injustice, persevere even when confronted with uncertain times, and be open to receive the intended blessings from the Lord.  (inspired by Reflecting God – Devotions for Holy Living, WordAction Publishing Company)

You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 2 Corinthians 9:11 (NIV)

While today’s verse is 2 Corinthians 9:11, the surrounding text [2 Corinthians 9:8-15] is so good and so clear.  What more needs to be said?  May you each be richly blessed by this passage.

And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written:

“They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor;
their righteousness endures forever.”

Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! [NIV]

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV)

Passage: 2 Corinthians 9:1-7

God has gifted each of us in many different ways.  For a moment, think about one of your special gifts.  Now, think about how someone else might be blessed by you sharing this special gift with them.  What a blessing it can be to give!  God has also provided for us in material ways.  May we find ways to share, from our abundance, with others who are in need.  In addition, as believers, we have received the gospel message and sufficient grace to believe.  May we freely give what we have freely received.  May we make this day a special day by sharing a bit of God’s love with family, friends, and those around us.  (inspired by Reflecting God – Devotions for Holy Living, WordAction Publishing Company)