The Grace of Giving

We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God granted to the churches of Macedonia: During a severe testing by affliction, their abundance of joy and deep poverty overflowed into the wealth of their generosity. I testify that, on their own, according to their ability and beyond their ability, they begged us insistently for the privilege of sharing in the ministry to the saints, and not just as we had hoped. Instead, they gave themselves especially to the Lord, then to us by God's will. so we urged Titus that just as he had begun, so should he also complete this grace to you. Now as you excel in everything-faith, speech, knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love for us-excel also in this grace. 2 Cor 8:1-7

 

Did you ever consider that giving was a grace? I am sure not many of us did. We tend to think of the tithe as a requirement yet it is more. The tithe, and not that which is being dealt with here, when given in faith is a powerful seed that can yield much fruit.

 

The giving mentioned here by Paul is the offerings for the saints in Jerusalem who are suffering. yet the Macedonians are proving to be excellent givers when they themselves are poor.

 

Did you know that the best givers are not the rich, but in fact those who do not have much? Having said that, I am well aware of the philanthropy of several wealthy men and women, Bill Gates and Richard Branson to name two. I am saying that the best givers across the board are the less fortunate. they know what it is to go without and are sympathetic towards the poor.

 

In this scripture Paul talks of the grace of giving. This is beautiful! My prayer for us all is we experience God's grace in our giving. His grace is fragrant, it is an abundance of fresh beautiful oil that liberates the giver and the receiver. Amen!