The Grace of Giving



And now brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. (2 Corinthians 8:1-4, NIV)

In dealing with the Church at Corinth, Titus had initiated an invitation to provide for the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem who were being horribly persecuted at that time. The collection and transport of this offering was interrupted, presumably by the "false teachers" that had wreaked havoc in the Church. They even accused the Apostle Paul of wanting the offering for himself. In this passage we find Paul explaining his motivation for encouraging the Church at Corinth to make provision as their sister Church in Macedonia had already done.

It is interesting to note that the spirit of giving that existed in the Macedonian churches was a gift of God's Grace. They desired to provide for the Jewish Christians and out of that desire, the Lord blessed them with a spirit of giving that went beyond even Paul's expectations. You see, the Romans who had conquered much of that area of the world, had stripped Macedonia - people their were left without money or possessions. Indeed, Paul's usage of the word 'extreme' poverty translates "down to the bottom"; in other words, they were down to the very dregs of poverty - they were beggars. And yet, by God's grace they were experiencing extreme joy (one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit at work in our lives...) which overflowed into this spirit of giving.

Another key observation here is that the initial desire came from within - a desire to be obedient to the Lord in every facet of their life. Upon hearing of the plight of the Jewish Christians, they desired to help - even though they were destitute themselves. They even considered it a privilege to share.

My friend, when was the last time you begged the Lord for an opportunity to share with someone else. I am not talking about money specifically (though that might be one opportunity the Lord has placed before you). No, I mean a chance to share a part of yourself with someone - your time, your energy, your skills, your wisdom, your experience, your love. I know you can find something from this list you possess. All I am suggesting is that, as the Macedonian church experienced, you can share a part of your life with someone and know the great joy that comes from being obedient to the Lord's commands. What would He have you do? Try asking Him and then waiting around for His answer in prayer and meditation on this passage of His holy word ...

The Christians at Macedonia had learned a great spiritual lesson - whatever they gave to the Lord, or to others in the name of the Lord, was enough of a reward in terms of satisfaction to justify doing it. Moreover, they were confident that God would supply whatever they needed in the future so their sacrifice was done purposefully. Their utter dependence on God had grown in them a trusting, confident faith in the many promises of the King of Kings (about 7,000 promises from God are recorded in the Bible). When your mind tells you there's nothing left, strive to trust God and continue to carry out His will.  Our God will honor that kind of faith!







Our Creator God loves you and wants you to know Him! If you would like to contact this ministry for further information or questions, please send your e-mail to:
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Copyright 3/28/2001, Randy Lariscy.