Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. (2 Corinthians 8:1-2)
In 2 Corinthians 8:1-2, Paul was writing to the church of Corinth about the churches in Macedonia. These churches began with one meeting in the home of the jailor that had beaten and mistreated the apostle. Many other churches grew from that one. That’s how multiplication is supposed to happen. New churches should naturally be birthed out of existing churches.
Paul wrote that nearly everyone in the churches throughout Macedonia was in a severe battle when it came to their finances. Yet Paul did not say they were struggling or stressing or complaining about their situation. Instead, he told us the exact opposite. They had an abundance of joy!
How did they have joy while they were waiting for the manifestation of the answer to their problems? They walked by faith and not by sight. They had a revelation from the Holy Ghost on how to get out of their deep poverty. The grace of God that was bestowed on them was the anointing and wisdom from the Holy Ghost. The revelation they received showed them how to overcome their financial lack. Through abundant, generous giving, they would get out of the trial of affliction they were facing. It is always more blessed to give than to receive because, as you give, you enact spiritual and natural laws that bring finances to you on an on-going basis, which is much better than a one-time gift.
Practical Application – Are you struggling financially? Give liberally in faith and with joy and watch the blessings of the Lord overflow for you.
Luke 6:38; Acts 20:35