Today is July 26.


May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit.  
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
   
Today’s reading is from the book of 2 Corinthians, chapter 9.  
  

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.  
  

I learned about generosity from a friend who stayed with us for over a year when we lived abroad, helping to care for our children when they were young. She had – and still has – the gift of radical hospitality… she planned the most wonderful parties… She exuded joy. I think of her, when I think of sowing generously, or of being a cheerful giver. From her, I learned: the more, the merrier… is true – even for an introvert! So often we are afraid to sow generously. We’re afraid we’ll run out. We’re afraid we’ll be too indulgent in our offerings. Do you know someone who’s an example for you, of a generous giver? Call them to mind. And call to mind how you feel when you’re in their presence. 
   
Does generosity come naturally to you? Have you learned that it is better to give than to receive? Listen again, and ask God to direct your attention to something in this text for you to consider more today:
   
….So that in ALL things, and at ALL times, having ALL that you need… this is the fruit of knowing God. When we trust that God will provide for us in ALL… and when we consider ALL that He’s done for us… it’s easier to be a cheerful giver, and to sow generously. As we end our time of prayer today, ask God to remind you who he is and how generous He’s been to you? And will you – this week – reach out to the person who has served as an example of generosity to you, and thank them?    
  
Music: Generous God - Vineyard Soul - (YouTube)