How can we ensure our actions align with God's will, as in 2 Corinthians 8:19? Context: Paul’s Example in 2 Corinthians 8:19 “And not only that, but he has been chosen by the churches to accompany us with this gracious gift, which is being administered by us to honor the Lord Himself and to show our eagerness to help.” (2 Corinthians 8:19) Key Insight: Two Non-Negotiables • “to honor the Lord Himself” – God’s glory is the controlling motive. • “to show our eagerness to help” – practical love for people proves that motive. Scripture as Our Fixed Compass • Psalm 119:105 – God’s word lights each step. • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – It thoroughly equips for “every good work.” • Colossians 3:17 – Do everything “in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Guarding the Heart: Motive Checks Ask before acting: • Does this clearly exalt Christ? (1 Corinthians 10:31) • Will it serve others sacrificially? (Philippians 2:3-4) • Could it cause anyone to stumble? (Romans 14:19-21) Practical Steps to Align Actions with God’s Will 1. Submit Decisions in Prayer – Proverbs 3:5-6 promises guidance when we trust, not lean on self. 2. Compare Plans with Clear Commands – John 14:15 links love and obedience; anything opposing Scripture is out. 3. Seek Wise Counsel – Proverbs 11:14; the church chose companions for Paul—plural wisdom. 4. Pursue Transparency and Accountability – 2 Corinthians 8:20-21 shows safeguards “so that no one can discredit us.” 5. Act Promptly Once Confirmed – James 4:17: knowing the right thing obligates us to do it. 6. Review the Fruit – Matthew 7:17-20; Galatians 5:22-23. God’s will produces godly fruit. Living It Out Daily • Offer yourself as a “living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1-2). • Keep short accounts with God—confess quickly (1 John 1:9). • Build habits of generosity, as Paul’s team did (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Stay mission-minded: every task links back to making Christ known (Philippians 1:11). Result: Glory to God, Good to Others When our motives, methods, and message line up with the plain teaching of Scripture, our lives echo Paul’s purpose: honoring the Lord and eagerly helping people. |
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