For if there be first a willing mind, …. 2 Corinthians 8:12a

Readiness to Will

Paul writes an expedient message to the Corinthian church. Titus had begun a work in the church a year prior therefore, Paul stressed the importance of continued willingness to give. He instructed the church to make up their mind to continue performing God’s work. Like the early church, once we have a readiness to will, or a prompt willingness, it is then we will perform, or do, what God has called us to. 

Willing Mind

Our thoughts precede our actions. In fact, we will determine our willingness to serve in our minds. Once our mind is set our hearts will resign to carry out God’s work here on earth. Because of this, our minds need to be sober and stable in order to perform our work for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Sober Mind

Wherefore, gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 1 Peter 1:13 and 14.

Paul instructs to bind, or secure, the innermost thoughts of our minds in order to prepare for action. This takes aligning our thoughts with God’s truth. Being serious and earnestly thoughtful about the work of the Lord is sober mindedness. Once we set our minds to obey God’s Word by restraining from our fleshly lusts, this will result in overcoming ignorance. No longer ignorant, our yielding produces endurance and stability.

Sound Mind

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

God intends for believers to have a sound mind. His word provides a true premise or base for our stability. Incidentally, the study of God’s truth keeps us willing and focused on His work. Once our mind agrees with his truth, we will obey. Consequently, we overcome fear to experience His power and love. Once our mind is infused with this knowledge, we are sound and secure, set to live out our God called purpose on earth.   

Willing Women

Rahab the Harlot, made up her mind to help God’s men. Her decision saved her family and placed her in the lineage of Christ, who dropped her title of harlot. What’s more, Ruth decided to follow her mother-in-law despite Naomi’s protest! She found provision and blessing in Boaz, her kinsmen redeemer. Ruth was Great-grandmother to King David and is of the lineage of Christ. Esther, an orphan placed in less-than-ideal circumstances set her mind to approach the King. Because of this, her life was in danger, yet she overcame fear to face the King on behalf of her people. Her actions led to the saving of God’s people. Notably, Mary surrendered and birthed the Savior, who brings life to all who believe. Willing women make a difference.

*Are you ready?

*Is your mind set? 

*Then go serve the Savior!

WORDS OF TRUTH

But be ye doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. James 1:22