Thursday SOAP: The Poverty of Jesus

Scripture
"You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich" - 2 Corinthians 8:9

Observation
There is a great exchange spiritually in this verse. Christ had everything; we had nothing. He gave up everything and reduced himself to nothing so that we could have everything.

Application
This great exchange demands two responses - First, constant praise and gratitude. What kind of God gives this much, solely from love? Second, I have to demonstrate a constant lifestyle of generosity, and a willingness to spend myself for others. Because Jesus has given everything for me, I have everything I need to give myself away.

Prayer
Lord, it is almost unimaginable that the One who had everything gave it all up for me. Thank you, forever. It is sometimes hard for me to be generous. So I pray that you give me the same spirit of generosity that Jesus had - this same reckless spirit. I have so far to go, but I believe that you will complete that work in me. Specifically, this week, as we finalize our own sense of leading as to our LOVE REVOLUTION commitment, help me to be motivated by generosity, not fear or safety. Amen.