We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints— and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.
2 Corinthians 8:1-5 ESV
CONSIDER: I am so challenged by this passage today. Despite affliction and extreme poverty, the churches of Macedonia overflowed with generosity. Have you ever begged to bless someone? There was a heart of generosity in these churches that they begged to provide relief. Let me say that again: they begged to provide relief! I want that heart. I want to be so filled with God’s joy that even in my poverty or afflictions, I still beg to provide relief for someone else. I believe this is the mindset of Christ that we should have. Spend time today celebrating and praising God for His grace. God is so good to us. God is so generous. Good is so gracious.
REFLECT: Do you have a poverty mindset or an abundance mindset? Do you compare what you have by the world’s or God’s standards? Look at how you use the resources God has blessed you with. Look at your time, talents, and treasures and see if God is calling you to surrender something in your life that you have held in more significant value than Him. Ask God what He would like you to do, and then listen.
PRAY:
Use these resources to help pray specifically each day.
As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.
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