2 Corinthians 9:1 "Now it is superfluous for me to write to you about the offering for the saints". But it's not so superfluous that Paul will not go on to encourage the Corinthians to give generously to the new Church, saying "He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully ... And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance so that you may always have enough of everything." (2 Corinthians 9:6-8)

I love how Paul butters up the Corinthians before encouraging them to give. He says it is superfluous for him to even bring it up and that he has been boasting of the Corinthians to the Macedonians. When he gets to the heart of his request, Paul reminds them, and us, that "God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7) and will always make up to us in abundance anything we give in generosity for Him.

I think I need this reminder right now, as I have cut back on my charitable giving this year, due to financial constraints and worry about inflation, the increased cost of everything, and the state of the economy. Paul's letter is telling me not to worry about the future, God will provide generously if I have done the same. I have to evaluate if I am giving too sparingly, influenced by my fears and worries. God is in control of everything. If I give generously, even when I'm unsure of the future, He will take care of the future in ways I can't even begin to foresee.

Let me also use this opportunity as a plug for the St Vincent de Paul Society Friends of the Poor Walk this Saturday. Since becoming a member of the society, I have seen how people in great need are right next door. We don't always see them, because they don't talk about it, but they need help, and the St. Vincent de Paul Society is one place they can get it. Our funds get depleted almost as quickly as they come in, however, so if you can give generously to your local chapter of the Society this Saturday (like mine, here) or anytime, I know that God will give generously to you! He will never be outdone in generosity!