2 CORINTHIANS 8: THE GRACE OF GENEROUS GIVING

9 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.

Chapter 8 is about the grace of God, giving and generosity. Paul is talking to the believers at Corinth about the collection or offering for the church in Jerusalem. This is not just a simple lesson about money. Paul has deeper point; true generosity is a fruit of the grace of God that is in the heart of the believer. Paul encourages the Corinthians to complete their commitment to help. He mentioned how generous the Macedonian churches amidst of the hardships and poverty because they have joy and devotion to the Lord. The Macedonian were not generous because they have money. It started when they give their heart to Jesus. Change of heart starts from surrendering to God. We can give generously when we know that everything we have comes from the Lord. He is the source of what we have, therefore we are not the owner of whatever we have right now.
Jesus’ grace is our salvation.

GRACE CHANGES WHAT WE BELIEVE.
GRACE CHANGES HOW WE LIVE.
GRACE CHANGES HOW WE GIVE.

In verse 5 it says the Macedonian gave themselves first to God, then they exceeded in the expectations of Paul. Before God wants our resources, He wants our hearts. Before you give something, give yourself to God. JESUS gave Himself. Jesus gave His life. He demonstrated sacrificial love.
When giving becomes difficult, remember: We are not trying to pay Jesus back. We are responding with gratitude to grace we could never repay.

 
Generosity is not determined by how much you have, but by what God is doing in your heart. Generosity is revealed through a willing heart. God sees the heart behind the gift. Generosity requires willingness and not pressure. Generosity is according to what God has given you. True generosity moves from intention to action. It turns willingness to action.

Jesus is the source of our grace.
Jesus is the greatest example of giving.
Jesus is the best example of generosity.

Generosity begins with the grace of God, then we give ourselves to God, our heart changes and filled with gratitude, then generosity is produced that we become willing to give, then people’s needs are met so God is glorified.

May we always be a reflection of god’s love and grace by being generous in sharing the gospel, by being generous in giving of our time, talent, energy, money and gifts god has entrusted us.


Let us pray.
Thank you Lord for the revelation.
Thank you for the conviction.
Make me grateful for your grace. May your grace change my heart. Let me fully surrender my heart to you. May I be willing to give so that others needs be met. Give me a generous heart Lord. May in my giving and everyday living you will be glorified. Amen.

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Elder Mayen - JCRC Cambodia