Re:Verse reading–2 Corinthians 8:1-15,9:7-8,11-15 (day two) 2 Corinthians 8 and 9 have a repeated theme. “Now brethren, we want to make known to you the GRACE OF GOD” (vs 1) Six other times in chapter 8 (and 3 more in chapter 9) Paul will ring this bell. He uses the word charis (note charismatic, charisma). It means “gift”. Something useful and undeserved. The idea is that what we give (in money, time or obedience) is a mere reflection, a faint and inadequate echo of what God has given us. We give because we have received! The surprise is vs 16. “But THANKS be to God” says Paul and he uses the same word (charis). Having received from God, we give to others but we also return to the Eternal One our thanks. We give grace to Him by just saying thank you. Is your heart preparing for Thanksgiving? Mine is. Probably we should not wait for November 24 to get started!
Heavenly Father,
I am so thankful for everything You are. My God, King, Lord, Savior, Redeemer, Defender, Sustainer, Protector, Provider, Comforter, Teacher, Beloved and Friend. This and more You are to me and I am grateful. My expression of gratitude is beyond the limits of my humanity. Thank you for your faithfulness in all things. You alone sit on the throne of my heart… may it be so more and more. You are worthy of praise!!
Yet, still there are those who do not give you praise or thanks. May you fan the flame that would consume me with passion to take my personality “flaw” of stubbornness and apply it to praying night and day for their salvation. You made me for such a time as this. As we see who You are, our hearts cry out for more…. both for ourselves and others. May we be like the woman who demanded justice and just would not give up. We cry out for an outpouring of your Spirit in our nation, churches, families. Revive us, our God…. and let it begin with me. Holy Spirit, please stir the waters of our souls and form LIFE in this nation.
Thank you for hearing me.
Amen.