2 Corinthians 8:1-7 You Don’t Have To Be Rich To Give Theme      Giving is not just for the rich. Everyone can give and when we do, we can rejoice in our ability to help others.  Scripture Reading      2 Corinthians 8:1 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.      5 And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.      6 Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.      7 Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.       2 Corinthians 8:2 Out of the most 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 saints. (NIV)  Relating to the Scripture      Paul is boasting on the churches of Macedonia, who  though themselves poor and persecuted, are giving to the poor saints at Jerusalem. They are rejoicing at the opportunity of doing good and being able to give. In fact they willingly gave beyond their ability. Verse 5 gives the secret of this kind of giving. “When one gives himself to the Lord, he is willing to do all other things the gospel teaches.” (Dake’s Annotated Reference Bible, 2 Corinthians 8:5 notes)      The truth is, if we have really given ourselves to the Lord, in some way, form or fashion we will be a giver. We may not be rich, but it will be our desire to help others who are in need. Today this offering will give us that opportunity. Through the ministry of the church we will give our tithe and offerings and the church will continue to reach out and help others through the power of Jesus Christ. Offering Admonition/Confession      We give today not based on our wealth or lack of it; but based on our love for God and our desire to help others. Personal Notes __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Ministry Use Log Date __________________________________ Day ______________________ A.M. ____ P.M. ____

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