Scripture:
2 Corinthians 8:9
9: for you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
Observation:
In Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, chapter 8, he turns to collections for the poor. Titus had organized this collection the previous year. Paul is sending Titus back with this latter to renew the efforts.
In verse 9, he uses the example of Christ giving his life for us to show the ultimate selfless sacrifice. Christ was God, equal in power and glory with the Father. Yet for our sake he became poor. Not only did he become man for us, but he was a poor man too. He was born of poor circumstances, lived a poor life and died in poverty. He did this all for our sake.
Application:
When I first read this verse, I looked at it on surface level about giving. As I reread it I found God speaking to me about my life and the worries that I have. I realize that I spend too much time with worldly pursuits and trying to maintain the worldly things that I have accumulated. When I see the example of Christ giving all of his riches for us, it puts my worldly riches into perspective. Christ died so that I could be rich. My possessions pale in comparison to being rich in the love and favor of God. My home, my job, and my things are unimportant in comparison to the riches of the hope for eternal life and the inheritance of the kingdom.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for giving me the reminder today of what really counts. Keep me focused on the promise of the riches of Your kingdom. When I get occupied chasing worldly riches, remind me of the things that really count. I know that I am part of the riches of Your grace, and the promise of your kingdom.