2 Corinthians 9:8 Devotional

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.
-2 Corinthians 9:8

“Bless your heart!”

We all have that grandmotherly figure in our lives who loves to “bless” us at every opportunity. Even when she pinches our cheek and smiles we never turn away because in our hearts we all long for true blessings in life. But what does it truly mean to be blessed? Does blessing mean wealth and prosperity? Comfort and an abundance of stuff that we think can keep us happy?

Jesus, His apostles, and the early Christians were people of immense peace and joy. Even in the middle of hard circumstances, they lived lives that would rival even the richest billionaire today. The key to understanding their joy is found in how they defined blessings.

In his second letter to the Corinthian church, Paul tells the believers to trust that God can provide everything they need. In writing this, Paul reaches back to Jesus’s words in Matthew 6:25-34, when He tells His followers to not worry about food, drink, clothing or safety – because God loves to take care of His children.

In Jesus, we find the true blessings of a life of following Him alone. When we turn our eyes away from our belongings and comforts, we see that He has all we need to live purposeful lives. Don’t miss the second part of Paul’s message – God gives us blessings so that we may lives full of good works!

When we feel the blessing of God in our lives, we begin to see that living for others gives us more joy than living for ourselves. What a truth we often miss! How will you ask God for faith and blessings today?

Questions For Reflection on 2 Corinthians 9:8

#1 How do you define blessings? What is that one thing that, if you had it right now, you think would give you complete satisfaction forever? Where does that thing stack in light of God’s blessing through life in Jesus?

#2 Jesus reminds us through Paul’s writings that not only is He able to provide for us, but He desires to do it! Have you actually taken the time to ask Jesus to bless you and provide for you today? Take the time to sit down and write out a prayer to Jesus, asking for His true provision in your life today!

Prayer

Jesus, I know that you are able to provide for me and my family. I confess that I often do not believe that you can, or that you will. I confess my lack of faith and ask that You would teach me how to better follow You in faith.

Lord God, I pray today for blessings in my life. Blessings that would draw me closer to You and to love others as well. Help me use the blessings that you give me to bless others and show your love through Jesus.