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2 Corinthians 9:1-5
In 2 Corinthians 9:1 (NKJV) the Apostle Paul uses the word “superfluous” in describing his writing to them. This simply means “exceeding what is sufficient or necessary” (Merriam-Webster). Paul’s confidence in the giving of the Corinthians is solid, but as he has been bragging about this to the Macedonians, he wants to make sure that his promises about the Corinthians hold true, so he is sending representatives to the church at Corinth to make sure that this gift that the Corinthians have promised is truly coming together. It seems that Paul is concerned that the promise of the Corinthians could possibly outweigh the follow-through of it.
This is an example of the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41).
We have all made heartfelt promises that have not come to fruition. The Bible teaches us in Matthew 26:41 (NKJV), “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” I believe that we all can relate to the sincerity of the heartfelt gift that the Corinthians made. It is not that they did not mean what they said, but when the promise comes to reality, we have an earthly tendency to hold back a little, or to forget about the promise all together. This is what the Apostle Paul was concerned about with the gift that the church at Corinth had promised to send to the Church at Jerusalem which would then be distributed to those in need. This is a great lesson in coming together as a church body and being supportive of one another in our duties as Christians; to look out for one another, to encourage one another, and to strengthen each other – in Christ.
Dear LORD,
There are those who You have blessed with the gift of giving, but for many of us it is easy to make the promises that never seem to become reality. Please help us to be honest with ourselves and honest with others in our giving that we would be helpful to those in need. Please fill us with Your Holy Spirit and guide us in Your will for our lives that we would bring glory to You – in Christ. In Jesus name I pray, amen.