No Thanks!

2 Cor. 8: 12 For if there is first a willing mind it is accepted according to what one has and not according to what he does not have

There was a famine in Jerusalem and the Christians were in great need. The church brothers and sisters in Corinth decided on their own to send them help. When Paul heard, he was happy that they were so concerned and generous and he commended them for their willingness of mind. God loves a willing mind. He hates grudging service. Picture this scenario:

You visit a friend and spend some time with her and now you are about to leave. Her mother calls her and she goes out of the room. They don’t know that you can overhear their conversation. Mother is urging her to share her lunch with you, but she is unwilling. She argues that she did not invite you to her house anyway, so you can very well go home and eat your own lunch. Eventually mother gives an order: “Go right back in now and ask your friend to stay for lunch”. I can just imagine you rising from your seat as your friend comes in. “Oh’’ you say, “I have to go”. Your friend pretends to be sorry. “Oh no”, she says, “lunch is almost ready. Please stay.” I can almost hear you saying, “I am sorry. I didn’t realize it was so late. Thanks for the invitation, but I have to go; maybe another time”. You couldn’t sit and enjoy a lunch that was offered so unwillingly, could you?

This is a simple illustration, but it shows how unacceptable a grudging offer is. It is through a willing mind that God uses us to share His blessings. The Bible says “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9: 7). There are so many things that we can give – material things, a visit to a sick or elderly person, a word of encouragement or comfort, a prayer, friendship – to name a few. God blesses our willing service for Him and for others.

As you go through today, may you be willing to do for the Lord whatever task He sends your way. Remember, God accepts any effort we make for Him if it comes from a willing mind.

Dear Lord, thank You for your many blessings offered to me. Please give me a willing mind to do service for You and for others, in Jesus’ name, amen