Intentionality

Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.
What you do affects outcomes. Not what you mean to do; what you do.
That’s like the old saying: “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”
In other words it’s not enough to mean to do something, you must actually do it! For example:
When you are stranded on the shoulder of an interstate, it’s no good then saying: “I meant to get the car serviced,” or
When the love of your life is marrying your best friend, it’s no good then saying: “I meant to get round to proposing,” or
When fire has destroyed your house and everything you own, it’s no good then saying: “I meant to buy insurance.”
It is actions that matter.
And a farmer needs more than good intentions to get a great harvest. He has to sow well. The generosity of his sowing will determine the abundance of his harvest.
Paul takes that principle and applies it to life. Don’t get stuck at the stage of wishful thinking. And, in whatever you do, don’t be a minimalist. Be generous! Put your heart into it! Give your best.
When an opportunity is given to give, it is of no good to wish that we had stopped by the ATM, or we had meant to bring our checkbook.  The old adage applies here, if you fail to plan then you plan to fail.  Being prepared to participate in the Kingdom by gracious giving requires intentionality.
"Now regarding your question about the money being collected for God’s people in Jerusalem. You should follow the same procedure I gave to the churches in Galatia. On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have earned. Don’t wait until I get there and then try to collect it all at once. When I come, I will write letters of recommendation for the messengers you choose to deliver your gift to Jerusalem."


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