Do As Jesus Did: Seeds Meet Needs 2 Corinthians 9:6,8,10-15 (NLT) 6 Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 10 For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 11 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. 12 So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. 13 As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. 14 And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. 15 Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words! Big Idea God raises our standard of living in order to raise our capacity for giving. Your harvest won’t until your sowing does. 6 Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. “If God did not withhold His Son, why should we fear that He will withhold anything less that we need?” God increases your seeds to meet more . 10 For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 11 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. Philippians 4:19 (NLT) And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Your ministry of giving you into a difference maker. 12 So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. 13 As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. 14 And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. 15 Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words! Your Impact: People's needs are met. —the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met,… God receives glory. …they will joyfully express their thanks to God. Gospel is displayed. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. Relationships are strengthened. …they will pray for you with deep affection… Worship increases. 15 Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words! What Now? Express God's generous love by planting your seeds of generosity this week. Continuing the Conversation 1. Where are you most tempted to live with a scarcity mindset instead of trusting God's provision? 2. What “seed” has God entrusted to you right now (time, abilities, finances, relationships, influence)? 3. How has someone else's generosity impacted your trust in Jesus? 4. Are there any practical ways that remembering God's gift of Jesus motivate you toward greater generosity?