It is possible to give generously but not give enthusiastically. “The preacher says I should give until it hurts,” says a miserly church member, “but for me, it hurts just to think about giving!” The Macedonian churches needed no prompting or reminding, as did the church at Corinth.

They were more than willing to share in the collection. In fact, they begged to be included! How many times have you heard a Christian beg for somebody to take an offering?

Their giving was voluntary and spontaneous. It was of grace, not pressure. They gave because they wanted to give and because they had experienced the grace of God. Grace not only frees us from our sins, but it frees us from ourselves.

The grace of God will open your heart and your hand. Then your giving is not the result of cold calculation, but of warmhearted jubilation!

Believe it or not: “The Macedonian churches … 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 saints” (2 Corinthians 8:1, 3-4, NIV).

For further thought: 1 Samuel 15:22; Mark 12:33; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7.

Action assignment: Write out reasons you think the Macedonian churches were so eager to give their money—and themselves. Talk to God about your attitude toward giving.

WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in