1 We want you to know, brothers,[a] about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, 2 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.3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord,4 begging us earnestly for the favor[b] of taking part in the relief of the saints— 5 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)
The church of Macedonia was relatively poor, but gave beyond their means to support the new ministry of Jesus Christ. They literally begged the Apostles for the favor. This should be a model for us all in how we give of our time, talent and treasure.
However, do we ever really give beyond our means? Giving, for many, is not a first fruits and beyond consideration. The Old Testament looked at ten percent as the baseline, in the New Testament Jesus speaks about giving from a willing heart. He did not recant the ten percent but sought for believers to give willingly from their abundance and even from their poverty.
Each element of our treasures should have some measure of giving involved in it. The fruit of the Spirit should flow forth from us and be manifest in how we use all of them.
Reflect on: What you give and how you give of your time, talents and treasure. Is it from a willing heart?
