Pockets and Purses (1 Corinthians 16 KJV & ESV)

 

In our Bible Study lesson the other week, the study writer John White directed our attention to the following.  He wrote,

"The last parts of us to be converted are our pockets and purses."

Rather humorous, I think. But then again ...

I think he's right in saying this.  When it comes to money matters, it really does create a tug-of-war with our pockets and purses.

When the apostle Paul was writing his farewell lines of his first letter to the Corinthians, he talked about money.  But he seemed to speak with the confidence that they'd give somewhat freely.

He spoke the

 "collection for the saints." 

 They were to give of their "store" as the Lord

 "had prospered them" (vs 2).

Paul made his appeal to them to ...

"... bring your liberality unto Jerusalem" (1 Corinthians 161-3 KJV).

The ESV calls it their "gift" (vs 3).

'Liberality' says more to me and makes me feel the pinch more.  'Gift' may cause a twinge too, though.  Why should they give of their hard-earned cash for others?

But a believer, whether in yesteryears or nowadays, can show God's love to our brothers and sisters-in-Christ even in freely and gladly giving when and where the necessity arises.  Paul encouraged,

"Let all be done in love" (1 Corinthians 16:14 ESV).

We can recall Jesus' parable of the foolish rich man who built bigger barns to store all his excess grain.  He did so without regard to others in need.  He was ready just to eat, drink and be merry without regard for his soul (see Luke 12:13-21).

He had a self-centered attitude that generated self-centered actions.  He would keep all for himself seems to be implied.

Financial security.

One never knows when one will need what they have.  So one hoards what one has.

But we need to be rich towards God whether we are rich or poor.  We need to build up treasure in heaven.  When the Lord prospers us with money and/or possessions we can use them for His glory and furtherance of His kingdom and to help those in need already in the kingdom.  All by the grace of God working in and through us on His behalf and on behalf of His people.

May the liberality of our pockets and purses be generous, until He comes.

                                               ~  ERC  June  2026  ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 16 KJV & ESV.

Sing, Give of Your Best to the Master, along with The N Crew and Hidup Ini Adalah Kesempatan, along with Harmony Voice.