2 Corinthians 8:1-4; The Fellowship of Ministering to the Saints

2 Corinthians 8:1-4 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; 2 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. 3 For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; 4 Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.

The churches in Macedonia literally pleaded with the Apostle Paul to allow them the joy of giving to the saints in Jerusalem. Knowing the already stretched financial situation of these brethren, the Apostle Paul would not want to burden them further to accept their kind gift. However, they were determined to exercise their stewardship through their giving and asked for the Apostle Paul to accede to their request.

A commendable, selfless spirit that the Apostle Paul saw and was touched by their deep love for the brethren. What a moving demonstration of practical piety. They wanted to be a part of this ministry of benevolent care and they sincerely brought their gift for distribution.

Proverbs 11:24-25 There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth … The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

Amen.