Chapter 8 is the first of two chapters dealing with the concept of giving. Here Paul gives examples and encourages gracious giving. The Corinthians apparently had shown great generosity in the past. Paul wanted to bring that to mind in case they had forgotten their zeal for giving. They had to complete what they had started.
Paul puts giving into perspective, and verse 9 speaks volumes. “You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich.” Jesus was the most generous giver of all. He gave his very life so that we could be reconciled to himself and the Father. He sacrificed himself for you and me. Take a moment to reflect on what Jesus left behind in his heavenly kingdom to come to earth as a tiny baby. Now let the gratitude of your abundance swell up inside.
How can we not want to open our hearts and our pocketbooks in gratitude because of Jesus’ love and faithfulness? The question then becomes “how much should we give?” Jesus told the parable of the widow’s mite (Luke 21:1-4) wherein she gave all that she had. Paul’s suggestion is a lot more practical. “Whatever you give is acceptable if you give it eagerly. And give according to what you have, not what you don’t have.”
I have to admit that giving my tithes and offerings is the only time I “eagerly” part with my money. For me, it is so rewarding to share with those doing the ministry of Jesus, whether it’s my local church or one of the mission organizations my husband and I support. Paul doesn’t set an amount but gives us the responsibility to give what we have and are able. Overspending our giving budget always brings a smile to my face.
What I’ve noticed over the years is that when I stretch my comfort zone and give more, I always have enough. Have you had that experience before? I figure it’s all part of God’s economy, and I don’t have to understand how it works. My part is simply to give. Those gifts go beyond money, too, when you think of the time spent serving others in Jesus’ name.
As if Paul was trying to convince us to be generous, he reminds us to expect reciprocity. Verse 14 says, “Right now you have plenty and can help those who are in need. Later, they will have plenty and can share with you when you need it. In this way, things will be equal.” Maybe you’ve already experienced a season of life when you were blessed in your time of need. The needs in our world will always be there. It’s always a joy to be part of giving to fill a need.
Has Paul inspired you to be more generous or more eager in your giving? How are you being called to help?
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, thank you for how you sacrificed everything for me. I cannot fathom what you left behind to take on my sin and shame. My heart overflows, and I want to give back to you and other believers. Thank you for how you have gifted me. May I always share with grace and gratitude to further your kingdom in mighty ways. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
