GenerositySample

More Flinty Thank Fluffy 

This whole chapter, as well as the previous one (chapter 8), is about generosity. And, in particular, Paul and Timothy are concerned that the Corinthians actually follow through with generous action on the expression of generosity they’ve already made to the Macedonians. 

And this is a great reminder for each of us, today. It has spawned all kinds of derivative wisdom. 18th century writer Samuel Johnson is possibly most famous for asserting, “the road to hell is paved with good intentions.” Legendary inventor Thomas Edison warns, “A good intention, with a bad approach, often leads to a poor result.” 

The key here is that we’ve got to follow through with good intentions. And management guru Peter Drucker clarifies, “Plans are only good intentions unless they immediately degenerate into hard work.” 

So, let’s say that we have a generous bent. We’re inclined toward, what in the Infinitum way of life we allude to, being ‘open-handed in a closed fist culture.’ However, good intentions are often not enough. We’ve got to press in and press on to completion. 

Jesus, in Luke 9:51, set His face resolutely toward Jerusalem. In the original language, it’s as if His forehead is like flint. And generosity is often more flinty than fluffy. 

And it frequently requires as strong a heart. And as the money verse of the Bible reading highlights (v7): “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 as we follow through, “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed” (v8).