We hope that this newsletter finds you well. We are traditionally moving into the important Harvest season. We may not be as dependent on our own farmers as we used to be, as we can now receive produce from all over the world. However, it is still imperative that we support our own farmers, encouraging them to produce our own livestock, wheat, barley, and other essential products.
Harvest also reminds us of God’s abundant provision. Fields ripen, fruit trees are heavy with produce, and we pause to give thanks for the One who “gives seed to the Sower and bread for food” (2 Corinthians 9:10). Just as farmers reap what they sow, the apostle Paul reminds us that the spiritual principle of sowing and reaping also applies to our giving.
In 2 Corinthians 9:6, Paul writes, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
Harvest shows us this truth in action. A farmer who sows just a handful of seed will see only a small return. But the one who sows widely and faithfully will enjoy a rich harvest. Likewise, when we give generously of our resources, time, and love, God multiplies the impact far beyond what we can see.
Paul emphasises that Christian giving should not be done grudgingly or under pressure. “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (v.7). Harvest time is about joy, not duty alone. It’s never about coercion; our giving must come from the heart.
Just as the farmer delights to see the crops come in, so we delight to give back to the Lord who has given us everything.
However, the promise extends beyond material blessings. Paul assures the Corinthians that God can make “all grace abound” so that in every situation they would have all they need to overflow in good works (v.8). Giving not only blesses those who receive, but it also enriches the giver with deeper faith, greater joy, and a closer walk with God. Our generosity becomes an act of worship and a testimony to the world of God’s grace at work within us. A forgiving heart is a forgiven heart.
Paul reminds his readers that God Himself supplies the seed and multiplies the harvest (v.10). This truth lifts our giving out of the realm of mere human charity.
It is not about us trying to achieve something in our own strength. Rather, God entrusts us with resources so that we can be channels of His provision to others. The harvest we enjoy becomes seed for another harvest of righteousness. Being good stewards of God’s provision is important and biblical. (Luke 16:10-12, James 1:17)
In the Old Testament, the Jewish tithe (the first one-tenth) was a prescribed percentage of a person’s income. It belonged to the Lord and was used to provide for the priests, the temple and the needy. Offerings were made on special occasions (see Ex 35:21–36:7) and as an obligatory part of public sacrifices of thanksgiving, blessing or sorrow.
In the New Testament, emphasis is placed upon the believer’s heart and attitude. Paul declared that a Christian’s giving should be the overflow of a worshipful heart and a matter of conviction before God (2Co 9:7). Giving to others in a spirit of forgiveness—without judgment or condemnation—brings joyful, abundant rewards (Lk 6:37–38).
There are times he speaks the “language of abundance.” Is your tummy full? Are your bills paid? Got a little coin jingle in your pocket?
Don’t be so proud of what you have that you miss what you need to hear. Could it be that you have so much that you can give much? “God can bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2Co 9:8).
The outcome of such generosity is twofold: needs are met, and thanksgiving overflows to God (v 11–12). We should give according to our abilities, voluntarily and generously. God gives to us so that we can share with others.
When we give, practical help is provided to those in need, whether through food, shelter, support for ministry, or care for the vulnerable. At the same time, those who receive are moved to give thanks to God. In this way, giving fuels a cycle of praise and strengthens the bonds of fellowship within the body of Christ.
As we celebrate harvest this year, let us remember that every loaf of bread, every apple, every ear of corn is a visible sign of God’s provision. And let us also be reminded that our generosity—whether in finances, service, or acts of kindness—is part of the spiritual harvest God is bringing about in the world.
May we sow generously, give cheerfully, and rejoice as thanksgiving rises to God.
“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (v.14).