Daily Devotional for Monday, October 26
The Review
2 Corinthians 9:1-5
“Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness,” 2 Corinthians 9:5.
In this passage, Paul offers a gentle review of the Corinthian believers’ intentions to give. They had promised generosity, and Paul then reminded them to follow through, not reluctantly or out of pressure, but willingly and joyfully. His concern was not merely about collecting an offering; it was about cultivating hearts that give for the right reasons.
The apostle understood human nature. Good intentions can fade with time, and what once began with eagerness can cool into hesitation. Paul wanted their gift to be ready when he arrived, not hastily gathered or begrudgingly given. He desired their offering to be an expression of genuine love—a reflection of God’s grace working in their hearts.
This review teaches us the importance of preparation and consistency in our giving. True generosity is not impulsive but intentional. It grows out of gratitude, not guilt. When our hearts are right with God, giving becomes a natural response to His goodness.
Paul’s reminder was pastoral, not demanding. He knew that when believers give from the overflow of love, God is honored and needs are met. It is a joyful partnership between Heaven and earth—our willingness meeting His abundance.
Daily Challenge
Take a moment to review your own spirit of giving. Is it still fueled by love and gratitude, or has it become routine? Ask God to renew your joy in giving so that every act of generosity becomes a cheerful testimony of His grace working through you.
Steven Ridings