2 Corinthians 8:1-7
1 Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2 that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. 3 For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, 4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. 6 So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. 7 But as you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us—see that you abound in this grace also.
1 Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2 that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. 3 For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, 4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. 6 So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. 7 But as you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us—see that you abound in this grace also.
Giving to meet needs is a means of sharing God’s grace, especially as here where giving was in the midst of very hard times and suffering. In poverty and great suffering for Christ, giving with great joy made them rich. They gave more than they should or even could, freely and insistently, not grudgingly or in small measure. This should challenge us. Notice they began by first giving themselves to the Lord before giving to others, following God’s will by serving Him first. Also notice the other areas of grace that are important here - faith, words spoken (and how they are spoken), knowing the truths of God (the scriptures), diligence driving them on despite circumstances, and demonstrating love in actions. Giving is more of ourselves than just meeting material needs, but those needs are still vital.
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