Scripture:
2 Cor 8:7 But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
Observation:
Paul shared the excitement and joy of how the Macedonians, a very poor community of believers, gave a generous financial gift. Paul did not force the Macedonians to give. They gave out of love and joy even though they were living in poverty. The Corinthians were not just gifted in money. They were also gifted in areas that included earnestness and love. Paul nurtured and helped them grow in these areas.
Application:
The attitudes of the Macedonians should be the example I use to give. It should challenge us as church and as a community of believers. They gave money out of love and joy. Christians that have experienced an abundance of grace from God should reflect this love shown to them through giving. It has nothing to do with financial status. It has everything to do with the heart and the understanding of God’s will.
I am to excel in giving, not just do the “minimum amount required”. Sometimes it feels like I look at my giving like a credit card bill. There is the total balance due, a minimum payment and a whole lot of expenses that, when examined, were not that necessary. If I only pay the minimum payment, there is a cost. God does not want me to pay the minimum. He wants me to give out of my love and abundance.
Prayer:
The joy and urgency that the Macedonians showed is something does not always come through when I look at my giving. Help me to remember that all I have is yours and help me to spend my resources in ways that further your kingdom.