In today’s society, materialism is very strong.  The pull to have the best or the newest gadget, car, clothes, house, etc. can make it even more difficult to be willing to share one’s wealth with the less fortunate.  We are constantly bombarded with information that says that we deserve the best and that our worth is based on what we have.  However, as we learn in our studies this week, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). We are to give, not reluctantly, what we can to help others.  As a result, God blesses us according our generosity.  Therefore, we must ask ourselves the following:

• How blessed am I?
• What effect does materialism have on me?
• What can I do without (i.e. new clothes, the latest cell phone, high-priced coffee, cable television, dinner out, etc)?
• Am I a “cheerful giver?”

This week, we will read and discuss chapters 9 and 10 (2 Corinthians 9:1-10:18). Please feel free to share your thoughts or questions regarding the readings by posting your comments on the Week 5 page under 2Corinthians or on the LGB Facebook page.