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Giving is like farming. I’m not a farmer, but I know if a farmer eats up all his seed, he’s in trouble. No, he saves some seed to plant next year. He knows that by saving and planting seed, he will produce far more than he plants. The Apostle Paul used seed planting and harvesting to drive home the value of giving to help others. In 2 Corinthians 9, we read this: “Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.’ And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.” Paul then identifies some benefits of generosity. He says generosity in giving meets the needs of the needy; it honors God because it reflects His generous nature; it promotes contact and connection between the giver and the recipient; it causes recipients to give thanks to God; and it serves as a witness to a watching world. Let these benefits inspire you to be generous in your giving.
