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Morning Devotional 121723 Blessings For All

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Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

December 17, 2023


2 Corinthians 8:1-13

1 Brothers and sisters, we want to let you know about the grace of God that was given to the churches of Macedonia. 2 While many problems were testing them, their extra amount of happiness and their extreme poverty resulted in a surplus of rich generosity. 3 I assure you that they gave what they could afford and even more than they could afford, and they did it voluntarily. 4 They urgently begged us for the privilege of sharing in this service for the saints. 5 They even exceeded our expectations because they gave themselves to the Lord first and to us, consistent with God’s will. 6 As a result, we challenged Titus to finish this work of grace with you the way he had started it. 7 Be the best in this work of grace in the same way that you are the best in everything, such as faith, speech, knowledge, total commitment, and the love we inspired in you. 8 I’m not giving an order, but by mentioning the commitment of others, I’m trying to prove the authenticity of your love also. 9 You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Although he was rich, he became poor for our sakes so that you could become rich through his poverty. 10 I’m giving you my opinion about this. It’s to your advantage to do this since you not only started to do it last year, but you wanted to do it too. 11 Now finish the job as well so that you finish it with as much enthusiasm as you started, given what you can afford. 12 A gift is appreciated because of what a person can afford, not because of what that person can’t afford, if it’s apparent that it’s done willingly. 13 It isn’t that we want others to have financial ease and financial difficulties, but it’s a matter of equality.


Good Morning. Behold, I bring you tidings of great joy!


On this Sunday of joy, may we be joyful, generous givers! God blesses us abundantly in all things. In response to these gifts, we are called to share in the manner in which God gives to us.


Jesus teaches us how to humble ourselves and give of ourselves to others, even to give all we have, like the widow who gave all she had. The value of our gifts is not regarded in earthly terms. The widow’s two coins did not have a great monetary value. Their value was measured as great because she gave all she had. It shows great faith to give away everything.


In 2 Corinthians 9, Paul goes on to say, 6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.


We are not called to give because it is required. We grumble when we pay taxes, but we give because it is required. God asks us to give because we see a need and choose to help. For each time we share from the heart, we will be blessed. The greater the gift, the greater our blessing.


Gracious God, Thank you for this beautiful gift of life. During this blessed time, open our hearts so that we can cheerfully give to those in need. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: I always have enough to share.


Share your blessings! Pastor Liz


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Have a beautiful day! Pastor Liz

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