Abounding Grace

Sometimes I feel overwhelmed.

Today I looked at my to-do list and just felt stressed out and guilty. And then Dad called and gave me more to put on my list.

I was tempted to get right to work, but I stopped myself and read my Bible first.

And I read, in 2 Corinthians 9:7-8, “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.”

I’ve always taken this passage to mean financial giving, which I believe is the context. But now I’m wondering if it doesn’t also apply to serving in general.

Doesn’t God want us to minister to others with cheerfulness? How do I honor Him if I’m serving with a grudging heart wishing I didn’t have to do whatever I’m doing?

It’s not fun to change Depends or pick up dirty tissues or file thickening toe nails. But if I do it out of love for God and others, and purpose in my heart that this is how I’m to serve in this season, then He can help me do it all with a cheerful heart.

Because He is able to give me all the grace I need. Abounding grace! He is sufficient. His grace is enough.

He has given me abundance for every good work that He calls me to do!

I don’t have to feel overwhelmed with stress. Instead, I can focus on Jesus. I can cast all my cares on Him. I can walk close to Him, and thank Him for His provisions each step of the journey.

I can sing of the grace He gives and serve Him with a cheerful heart.