| 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most 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 saints. And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will. The Macedonian church is not a rich church, and it was constantly under all kinds of persecution and hardship. When Paul started to preach the gospel in Macedonia and Philippi, he was even imprisoned. Thank God, however, because this church had the joy of satisfaction. Why were they so blessed? One of the major reasons is their generosity. Our offerings also create opportunities for us to receive grace. The Bible says our land is filled with God's abundance, so God actually doesn't need us to offer our money to Him; however, He wants us to learn to lesson of giving. Those who are not willing to give are selfish and not happy, and only when they start to make offerings will they step out of selfishness. They will no longer live for themselves, but to live for God and those around them. Our lives will be filled with joy, and we'll receive more of God's grace. We also need to face a serious question: Who's the lord of our life? Jesus said that one cannot serve God and mammon at the same time. So which one is your lord today - Money or God? We thank God because the Macedonian church chose to let Jesus be their Lord. They chose to offer themselves to bless others even in the midst of all persecutions and hardship, and that's why God was pleased by them. Are you willing to take on the same path by faith? Pray with Pastor Tong Liu 
Lord, I thank you for the love and faith of the Macedonian church. I ask that you help us to have an obedient and trusting heart, so that we'll make offerings according to your will. We trust that if we do not save anything for ourselves, then you, Lord, will also not save anything from us. I thank you and I pray in the victorious name of Jesus, amen! |
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