2 Corinthians 9:8 (KJV)

What does this mean?

Paul is writing to the Corinthian church about a gift they are collecting for fellow believers in need. He tells them God is able to give them more than enough, enough for their own needs, and enough left over to be generous in every good work. The picture is of a God who supplies, so that his people can supply others.

What does this teach us?

God's provision is not only for you, it flows through you. He gives so that you have what you need and something to share, and generosity is part of what the gift is for. Christians understand the 'enough' here in different ways, some as material provision, some as the grace and strength for each task, but all agree the point is a life that can give.

How can we apply this?

Look at what you have today, time, money, a listening ear, and ask who could use a little of it. Generosity does not start when you have plenty; it starts with sharing a little of what God has already put in your hands.

Related KJV passages

• “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

  Philippians 4:19

• “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”

  Luke 6:38

• “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it .”

  Malachi 3:10