2 Corinthians 8: 1-7 “And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know
about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. In the midst
of a very 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 Lord’s
people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first
of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. So we urged Titus,
just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act
of grace on your part. 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.”
The September preaching series on generosity toward God, “The Treasure
Principle” Growth Group, and the upcoming “Harvest Offering” all point to a
focus on excelling/shining in giving. The Apostle Paul called the church in
Corinth to excel in the grace of giving and used the Macedonian churches
as an example of what rich generosity looks like. He wrote that in the
middle of severe trial and poverty, the Macedonian churches joyfully gave
even beyond their ability. How does this kind of generous giving happen?
Paul said the Body of Christ in Macedonia gave themselves “FIRST OF
ALL TO THE LORD…” As we make putting Jesus first our top priority, we
put ourselves in a place for Jesus to give us truly generous hearts.
Generosity/Kindness/Charity becomes a natural part of who we are. And
the bigger-hearted we become, the more open-handed we will be. What’s
in our hearts finds expression in the giving of our time, talents and
treasures!
Lord, may our lives and church be beautiful examples of excelling in the
grace of giving. May those around us see rich generosity in how we handle
the time, talents and treasures you have given us to build Christ’s kingdom
for Your glory alone!
Pastor Tammy
