2 Corinthians 8

Scripture 

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭8:2-5, 7-11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“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....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. I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. And here is my judgment about what is best for you in this matter. Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means.”

Observation-What does it say?

Paul is addressing the issue of stewardship in this letter, not just of money, but also of time (gotquestions.org). The Macedonians were pointed out as being generous givers and Paul encouraged the Corinthians to do the same.

Understanding-What does it mean?

God wants ALL of it, because all of it belongs to Him.

The Lord has given so generously to us because the only thing we are truly deserving of is hell. God wants our hearts and to give back our lives generously to Him. Our lives were bought with a price, Jesus' blood. That’s why it belongs to Him.

I love how Paul mentioned that the Macedonians gave in the midst of a severe trial and extreme poverty. It was a privilege for them to partner with the church in ministry. It wasn’t a burden. They actually urgently pleaded to be part of giving and partnering with the church. It wasn’t when things were going well that they decided to be generous. It was when things were not going well that they remained joyful and generous. 

Life Application

Give generously. 

Have you ever wanted to take back your life, but then the Holy Spirit convicts you of why He saved you in the first place? That happened to me yesterday. Our lives are not our own. It belongs to Him.

“Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” Matthew‬ ‭10:38-39‬ ‭NIV‬‬

How are we managing and stewarding His resources? If we believe that it ALL belongs to God—our money, possessions, time, gifts/talents, lives, how are we doing with managing it for His glory, honor and Kingdom purposes? 

Dear Lord, I want to partner with You in ministry with a grateful and joyful heart, “urgently pleading for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people even in the midst of a severe trial or extreme poverty” as the Macedonians faced. Thank You for their example through Your Word. It is very encouraging. Amen. 

-Michelle Gaddi