2 Corinthians 8:1-3; Beyond Their Power

2 Corinthians 8:1-3 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. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;

It was the grace of God that enabled the churches of Macedonia to liberally give despite the great trial of affliction they were under. They did so joyfully. In their deep poverty, they responded to the need of the brethren. How is that possible? They trusted God and are willing to suffer for the sake of their brethren. God placed that strength in their heart to do so. What a testimony of faith. Trusting God as to experience our Lord’s promise how it is more blessed to give than to receive.

Proverbs 15:6a In the house of the righteous is much treasure:

Proverbs 21:20a There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise;

Who gives to the poor, lends to God.

The best portions of a good man’s life—His little, nameless, unremembered acts Of kindness and love.¹ William Wordsworth (1770-1850)

Amen.

¹Draper’s Book of Quotations for the Christian World.