Theology Of ITSampel

In 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, Paul gives us an amazing example of a body of believers who not only understood the principle of the law of the harvest and the theology of IT, but practiced it with joy despite the meager store of their “seed.” 

The “churches of Macedonia” (verse 1) gave to meet the needs of their fellow saints in Jerusalem despite their own “deep poverty” (verse 2). Notice at least six clues to the Macedonians’ giving that can guide us today in our own giving for the Lord’s work: 

1. They gave because they understood the incredible gift of God’s grace to them; 

2. They gave with overflowing, abundant joy; 

3. They gave liberally, not simply tossing a few coins in the basket; 

4. They gave willingly, without having to be begged or coerced; 

5. On the contrary, they begged for the privilege of being part of this work; and 

6. They had their giving in the right order, that is, “they first gave themselves to the Lord” 

One problem we sometimes encounter in seeking to apply the law of the harvest to our lives is that the enemy whispers in our ear, “Don’t be a fool. Look around; there are a lot of people out there who have no regard for God, and yet they are making it big and don’t seem to have any problems. Why should you throw away your hard-earned money when nobody else seems to be doing it?”

 It’s true that as believers, we get upset at times because the wicked people in our world seem to have things their way. If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re in good company. But reading Psalm 73 carefully will give you insight. The psalmist began by lamenting the easy life of the wicked and got himself really worked up about it, falling into the “poor little me” trap. But notice the first word of verse 17: “Until.” God has the last word in this world, and you belong to Him.

When you live according to the theology of IT, you will discover God's abundant provision and His ability to meet your needs and give you the desires of your heart. 

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