Called to give (part 1)

When we’re asked to consider giving at Highlands, we’re often reminded to reflect on the letter Paul wrote to the Corinthians church about generosity, 2 Corinthians 9:1-8. Remember, these verses inspired this season being established at Highlands annually. Paul encouraged the believers at Corinth to be generous—and Corinth was a city not known for its inherent generosity (in fact, in ancient days, to ‘Corinthianise’ someone was to corrupt them). But Paul called the people there to be ministers of generosity, known for their abundant charity, and to infect others with their giving spirit rather than the spirit of their city. How were they to do this? Why don’t we let Paul challenge us about our attitude toward giving today?

ASK YOURSELF THIS: Am I giving with a good/cheerful/appealing attitude?

Ask yourself this: would those outside the church and your close friend group describe you as generous? Why/why not? Do you declare a generous God with your attitude? In John 13:35, Jesus tells His disciples to let their acts of love prove they’re His, and we can do this with our acts of generosity and love in action.

ASK YOURSELF THIS: What holds me back from giving?

Sometimes, we must look at our pressure points to determine why we’re not doing something. Paul encourages the Corinthians to give freely, without reluctance, and not in response to pressure. What are the reasons that spring to mind, especially defensively, when you’re asked to give? Is there someone you need to forgive who is holding you back from living a life of generosity like Jesus? Sometimes when others have taken advantage of our generosity, we can be resentful, but we’re the ones who miss out! Where do you need the freedom to give today? “Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matthew 10:8b)