Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day.

We are about to begin our next study and move into the Old Testament. We will begin with the book of Hosea. Hosea confronts divided hearts and exposes what we truly love. This means it is time to get your next Scripture Journal from our website for this study. If you are a Project23 partner giving $35/month or more, we have already sent this to you in the mail.

Our shout-out today goes to Edward Janowiak from Highland Ranch, CO. Thanks for your partnership in Project23.

Our text today is 1 Corinthians 16:1-4.

Now concerning the collection for the saints: as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to do. On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come. And when I arrive, I will send those whom you accredit by letter to carry your gift to Jerusalem. If it seems advisable that I should go also, they will accompany me. — 1 Corinthians 16:1-4

What does resurrection faith look like?

After fifty-seven verses on resurrection glory in Chapter 15, Paul talks about money. And that is not accidental.

Resurrection hope does not make Christians abstract in their practice. It should make us practical. The Corinthians were instructed to give regularly. Systematically. Proportionally.

"Each one as he may prosper."

This is not emotional manipulation. It is disciplined stewardship. Notice who this giving supports. The saints. The church. It's a gospel partnership across the region.

Paul is organizing a relief offering for believers in Jerusalem. The Gentile church supports the Jewish church. Theology becomes generosity. Doctrine becomes dollars. Unity becomes action.

Resurrection people should never be close-fisted with the generous life and blessings that God has afforded them. If Christ is risen and eternity is secure, then natural resources (i.e., money) loses its ultimate grip.

Believers never hoard what they cannot keep. Believers invest in what will outlast them. Giving to God's work is not a side note in Christian maturity. It is further evidence that you believe the kingdom is real.

And Paul adds accountability to his command. Trusted men will carry the gift. Paul may go with them. Resurrection faith produces transparent generosity.

DO THIS:

Set aside a specific, intentional gift this week for the work of the Lord. Don't wait for emotion. Plan it. Pray over it. Give it.

ASK THIS:

1. Does my spending reflect resurrection hope—or present fear?
2. Am I giving proportionally to how God has prospered me?
3. Do I see generosity as worship—or as loss?

PRAY THIS:

Lord, you gave your Son for me. Teach me to hold my resources loosely and invest in what advances your kingdom. Make my generosity a reflection of my hope in the risen Christ. Amen.

PLAY THIS:

"Take My Life and Let It Be"