Text: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9 AMP
Key verse: For you are recognizing [more clearly] the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [His astonishing kindness, His generosity, His gracious favor], that though He was rich, yet for your sake, He became poor, so that by His poverty you might become rich (abundantly blessed).
2 Corinthians 8:9 AMP
Another way to measure if we are growing in Grace is in our “Generosity.”
From our text, it is abundantly clear that Generosity is an act of Grace. Generosity is the willingness to share cheerfully or part with one’s endowed resources ( money, material, time, etc.), for the benefit of others, without expecting anything in return from the beneficiary. The motivation behind this giving is purely the Love of God. This outward disposition of sharing and giving reflects an inner persuasion and the workings of the Holy Spirit in the heart of the Giver.
Most people think you must be rich, wealthy, or comfortable to be Generous, but that is far from the truth. There are many stingy and “Ungenerous” rich, wealthy, and materially endowed people. I am sure you can bear witness to this fact.
The Believers in Macedonia gave out of their deep poverty. They responded to the needs of others before they had all their needs met. They gave according to their ability and even beyond their ability. They were willing to sacrifice and go through some inconvenience for the benefit of others. They saw it as a privilege to serve and lift others.
Do you consider it a favor to you when you give, or do you think of yourself as doing the favor when you give? Apostle Paul challenged the believers in Corinth to emulate the spirit of generosity amongst the Believers in Macedonia. Two whole chapters addressed the attitude of Generosity -Grace of Giving. ( 2 Corinthians 8, 9)
Jesus established this pattern of giving for us. He gave up His rights as a Son. He gave up His life as a sacrifice for our sake and benefit.
For you are recognizing [more clearly] the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [His astonishing kindness, His generosity, His gracious favor], that though He was rich, yet for your sake, He became poor, so that by His poverty you might become rich (abundantly blessed).
2 Corinthians 8:9 AMP
The worst kind of life to live is to live entirely for yourself. When all you do is focus on your own needs and well-being. Live purposely by being generous with your money, time, and resources.
Intentionally and prayerfully plan to impact someone’s life through your generosity. The enemy of generosity is the “Self.”
Prayer: Lord, help me to live beyond myself. I ask that you open my eyes to those you have planted around me to bless in Jesus’ name. Amen
Photo by Elisabeth Wales on Unsplash