Excel in the Grace of Giving
“1 And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. 2 In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, 4 they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. 5 And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. 6 So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. 7 But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.”
Paul commends the Corinthian church for their richness in faith, speech, knowledge, earnestness, and love. Yet he adds a specific appeal, encouraging them to also "excel in this grace." This "grace" refers to the abundant generosity and dedication shown by the Macedonian church. Despite trials and poverty, the Macedonians practiced generous giving with overflowing joy, an ironic demonstration of the Christian life’s unique expression: joy amid suffering and giving amid lack.
This joy in hardship, leading to generosity, may seem paradoxical, yet it’s deeply rooted in the faith that sustains Christians through inevitable struggles. Reflecting on the history of the Korean church, we see that the trials they faced enriched their faith, ultimately bearing fruit in mission work and evangelism.
As we enter this season of gratitude, may we take Paul’s exhortation to heart, living lives of abundant generosity born from a spirit of gratitude.
Prayer: Lord, we thank You for making our lives rich in grace and for the privilege of offering ourselves to You in that richness. During this Thanksgiving season, grant us a special joy and gratitude, filling us with the joy You provide even amid trials and difficulties. Let us deeply imprint a life of giving, sharing, and serving in our hearts, and guide us to express Your love through these acts.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)
Devotional content is available on the Our Daily Bread website.