2 Corinthians 8:16-9:5
Be still: Holy Spirit come and be with me now, let me know the words and ideas that you want me to hear today. Amen
Read: 2 Corinthians 8:16-9:5
'We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift. For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man.' (v20-21)
Encounter: Yesterday we considered the ‘act of grace’ that is giving. Paul continues to talk about the financial gift from the Corinthian church, but now he is turning to practical matters. When we think about our motivation for giving it is often linked to a practical outworking: what we will do, whether we will actually do it and how we will do it.
The act of stewarding our money well is both a divine act (an ‘act of grace’) and a very human and pragmatic one. Paul lets the church know that he is sending three of his co-workers to them: Titus and two other trusted men, one of them, perhaps, Luke the gospel-writer. These men are not sent to act like bailiffs or landlords collecting arrears, but rather to help provide accountability for the church in what they have promised.
In verse 5 Paul reiterates the nature of the money being freely given, calling it ‘this bountiful gift’ and a ‘voluntary gift’ that the Corinthian church has promised to share with those in need. Paul’s concern is both for the planned outworking – that the church will do what it says it will do – and that this will be done well, wisely and carefully, with transparency and integrity.
Apply: A lack of integrity with finance has caused a great deal of heartache for individuals, churches, and charities over the years, causing many to crumble and fall, with reputations shattered. As Paul reminds the church – it is vital that we ‘do what is right’ primarily in God’s eyes, but also in the ‘eyes of man’.
This attitude is as important for us with our own resources as it is corporately within our churches and workplaces. As followers of Jesus our integrity, accountability, and continued motivation to do what is right can speak volumes to others and, as Paul puts it, ‘show them the proof of your love.’
Devote: Lord help me live a life of integrity at home and at work, with all the resources you have given me. Give me wisdom and courage to always ‘do what is right.’