Service

"Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else."  (2 Corinthians 9:13)

This verse stood out for me, related to serving.   Essentially, it's saying that our serving and generosity are expressions of our obedience to God due to our faith in Christ and will glorify HIM.  One commentator put it this way:  "The doctrine is, that one evidence of true subjection to the gospel; one proof that our profession is sincere and genuine, is a willingness to contribute to relieve the needs of the poor and afflicted friends of the Redeemer." (Barnes)

Along those lines, my pastor said, during the sermon on Sunday, that the power of our lives are in direct proportion to how much God is in control.  We live the life of amazing grace by expressing our faith through a life of love; and the only way to be right with God is to trust in the finished work of Christ on the cross.

And, in the context of that verse, in 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, it ties together faith and works, particularly in reference to giving.  We give cheerfully (hilariously), not reluctantly or under compulsion; so that it will result in praise and thanksgiving to God.  We can be motivated by remembering that all provisions come from God; and that He is the greatest example of Love and Giving through "His indescribable gift!" - the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.