“For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave of their own accord, begging us with much urging for the favor of participation in the support of the saints.” – 2 Corinthians 8:3-4
As Jesus followers, we love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). In addition, we give back to God financially in dependence upon Him because He has given everything to us. Therefore, we give in response to the grace of God in our lives (2 Cor. 8:1). That is why these believers were “begging” Paul to give toward the relief of the saints in Jerusalem. They didn’t give because they had to or because someone was asking them to. They didn’t give because the offering basket was coming down their row, and they didn’t want to feel awkward by not putting anything in the basket. They gave in response to God’s grace, and they literally begged Paul to allow them to do it.
What is your motivation for giving in and through the local church to expand God’s Kingdom?
