Generous

2 Corinthians 9 is a chapter about the joys and benefits of generosity. In my big red Bible, I've marked up this chapter repeatedly, and made notes on 12 different benefits to being generous with the resources God has given us. You can find those benefits in verses 7, 8 (three listed in verse 8 alone!), 9, 10, 11 (x2), 12, 13, and 14 (x2).

At the end of this section, though, Paul says something really interesting: "And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you." That's one of my favorite benefits of generosity among God's people: it stirs those who benefitted from the gift to pray and thank God for those who were able to give the gift!

And right after saying that, Paul caps off the pile-o-blessing with this: "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!"

It took me a minute to figure out what "indescribable gift" Paul is referencing, but I believe he is referencing the Greatest Gift ever given: God's Son, Jesus Christ. It is God's truly indescribable gift that makes our giving so much more meaningful, powerful, and effective!

As Traci and I set out on this wild adventure to reach rural youth in NW Michigan—we were truly overwhelmed by all of God's gracious gifts in our lives. First and foremost for His Son, Jesus, and then because of Him, we are so grateful to all of you. Your generosity in your prayers, love, financial gifts, friendship, and encouragement has made our journey one of joy and hope.

When we have faltered, you have generously propelled us back to HIM with your encouragement, and when we have had a need, you met it even before anyone knew. When we were "stuck", you prayed us through, and when we celebrated a victory, you've rejoiced right along side us.

You are a part of God’s amazing gift to us, “Too wonderful for words.” May each of you continue to use your God-given talents and abilities to generously keep blessing others!

2 Corinthians 9 is a chapter about the joys and benefits of generosity. In my big red Bible, I've marked up this chapter repeatedly, and made notes on 12 different benefits to being generous with the resources God has given us. You can find those benefits in verses 7, 8 (three listed in verse 8 alone!), 9, 10, 11 (x2), 12, 13, and 14 (x2).

At the end of this section, though, Paul says something really interesting: "And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you." That's one of my favorite benefits of generosity among God's people: it stirs those who benefitted from the gift to pray and thank God for those who were able to give the gift!

And right after saying that, Paul caps off the pile-o-blessing with this: "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!"

It took me a minute to figure out what "indescribable gift" Paul is referencing, but I believe he is referencing the Greatest Gift ever given: God's Son, Jesus Christ. It is God's truly indescribable gift that makes our giving so much more meaningful, powerful, and effective!

As Traci and I set out on a much needed family vacation this last week—and a chance to celebrate AJ's senior year together—we were truly overwhelmed by all of God's gracious gifts in our lives. First and foremost for His Son, Jesus, and then because of Him, we are so grateful to all of you. Your generosity in your prayers, love, financial gifts, friendship, and encouragement has made our journey one of joy and hope.

When we have faltered, you have generously propelled us back to HIM with your encouragement, and when we have had a need, you met it even before anyone knew. When we were "stuck", you prayed us through, and when we celebrated a victory, you've rejoiced right along side us.